BRADLEY COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Sheriff Steve Lawson has announced on Thursday that he will be seeking re-election as Bradley County Sheriff.
“In 2018, the people of Bradley County allowed me to serve as their elected sheriff. To serve in this position has meant a lot to me, and we have been able to institute several improvements and programs over the last several years. With that in mind, and after much consideration, I am proud to announce that I will seek another term as your Bradley County Sheriff.”
– Sheriff Steve Lawson
Over seven years of service, Sheriff Lawson has overseen numerous modernizations to the facility, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning replacements, a new roof, and enhanced security fencing among other improvements.
The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has made it so that inmates can earn certifications while incarcerated thanks to partnering with Cleveland State Community College, Tennessee Workforce Development, and City Fields to provide comprehensive training for areas such as culinary, plumbing, and welding.
All Bradley County high schools and middle schools have been assigned additional school resource officers, as well as every elementary school having a dedicated deputy sheriff.
Sheriff Lawson visits each school annually and maintains consistent communication with school leadership.
He has also pushed for notable investments towards officer safety, including Axon body cameras, in-car cameras, ensuring body armor replacements every four years, and improved scanning technology for the corrections division.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s 2024 statistics show that the BCSO reached an overall crime clearance rate of 78.7%, and burglary clearances exceeding 60%.
These stats put the BCSO among the top law enforcement agencies statewide.
“In my initial campaign, I told the voters I would work to the best of my ability, and I have held true to my word. I am thankful to the people who have supported me and look forward to continued progress in our agency and community.”
– Sheriff Steve Lawson
