Daviess County Deputy Jailer Chris Isbill has been named Deputy Jailer of the Year by the Kentucky Jailers Association, recognized for his bravery and leadership during a dramatic semi-truck rescue earlier this year.
Isbill received the award during a ceremony Tuesday in Covington, where family members and law enforcement colleagues joined him from across the state.
“It feels good to get an award for something good you did, but honestly, I would have rather just helped the guy and gotten out of there without anyone knowing,” Isbill said. “But I really appreciate it, and I’m glad we could all be together for it.”
Isbill, who has served nearly two decades at the Daviess County Detention Center, led a rescue on Jan. 16 when a semi-truck jackknifed, flipped onto its roof, and caught fire on the Wendell Ford Expressway. Isbill and four inmate workers — Brian Boehman, Chalan Cox, Nicholas Edge, and Joshua Powell — were on a road crew with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet when the crash happened.
Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger said Isbill’s quick actions helped save the truck driver’s life despite a harrowing scene.
“It was really a scary incident,” Maglinger said. “They were nearly struck by the semi itself. Chris jumped into action — he and his inmate workers didn’t hesitate. One helped with a fire extinguisher, others broke out the truck’s window with a tire jack, and got the driver out. It was like something you see in the movies.”
The inmates received letters of commendation and were awarded meritorious good time, shortening their sentences in recognition of their bravery.
For Isbill, the award ceremony was humbling.
“I’m just thankful to the Jailers Association, Jailer Maglinger, and our command staff for their support,” he said. “I enjoy this job — I like helping people and hopefully helping them make better choices so they don’t come back.”
Maglinger said Isbill’s dedication has impacted countless inmates in a positive way throughout his nearly 19-year career, particularly through the work release program he’s supervised since 2018.
“He’s an incredible employee and truly deserves this recognition,” Maglinger said. “This award is given by a committee of peers, and his actions really stood out.”
Isbill said he is eligible for retirement in about a year but plans to stay on the job for now.
“I think I’ll stick around a little longer,” he said. “I still enjoy what I do.”
Maglinger said the January rescue remains a reminder of the risks and compassion often unseen behind jail walls.
“These individuals placed themselves in harm’s way to save a life,” Maglinger said. “Their courage and quick action were remarkable. It shows the good that can come from people working together—even in the most unexpected situations.”
