The Memphis and Shelby County Optimist “Respect for the Law Committee,” made up of representatives of the 12 Optimist Clubs in Memphis and Shelby County, named Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Charles Crossley “Officer of the Year” today at the Criminal Justice Center.

The Optimist Club has, since the 1960s, given awards to deserving officers for their exemplary service to the community. “We are grateful to the Optimist Club for taking time to honor Deputy Crossley. He is an excellent officer and truly exemplifies the professional standards of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office,” said Shelby County Sheriff Mark Luttrell, Jr.

Deputy Crossley is assigned to the Traffic Bureau of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. He has served in that position for the past seven years.

“He is a role model citing characteristics such as professional ethics and morals, and he’s compassionate in his dealings with peers and the citizens he serves,” said his commanders on his nomination to the Optimist Club.

Deputy Crossley has gone beyond his duties and responsibilities by developing the Motorcycle Squad Instructor’s Manual.

Deputy Crossley, 42, hired on with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office in 1996. Before joining the Traffic Bureau in 1999, he was assigned to the Patrol Division.

Presenting the “Officer of the Year Award” were Mr. and Mrs. Don Seimer, who are active in the Optimist Club and serve on the club’s “Respect for the Law Committee.”

Deputy Crossley’s commanders in the Traffic Bureau and others from the Sheriff’s Office joined Sheriff Luttrell at the ceremony. Deputy Crossley’s mother, Mary, also attended the event.

L to R Sheriff Luttrell Mrs. Evonne Seimer, Optimist Club “Respect for the Law Committee” Deputy Charles Crossley Mary Crossley (mother) Mr. Don Seimer, Optimist Club “Respect for the Law Committee”

L to R Inspector John Yancey Sgt. Jimmy Dollahite Deputy Charles Crossley Sgt. Larry Lindsey Lt. Calvin Harris All from the SCSO Traffic Bureau