The Daviess County Detention Center is recognizing several employees with annual awards during National Correctional Officers Week, highlighting the work of staff members that Jailer Art Maglinger said often goes unseen by the public.
Maglinger said the facility has expanded its awards program over the past five years to better recognize employees across multiple roles, including deputy jailer, supervisor, and administrative staff.
The recognitions are being presented during shift briefings throughout the week, along with meals and other efforts to show appreciation for staff. Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen also visited the facility on Monday to present a proclamation in honor of Correctional Officers Week.
Brandon Allen was named the 2026 Deputy Jailer of the Year. A 13-year veteran, Allen serves in booking and as a court liaison and was recognized for his leadership, teamwork, and mentorship.
“He was awarded what we consider the highest honor, Deputy Jailer of the Year,” Maglinger said. “He primarily works in booking and serves as a liaison to the courts, and he was nominated for his leadership and mentorship to other staff.”
Sergeant Nicholas Tierney received Supervisor of the Year honors. A seven-year veteran, Tierney serves as a morning shift supervisor and has held several roles, including deputy jailer, booking deputy, and member of the Special Response Team.
“He currently serves as the shift supervisor on the morning shift and works to promote positive teamwork,” Maglinger said. “He was nominated for his leadership, teamwork, and the care he shows for his staff.”
Tierney was also among those recognized with a Medal of Valor, along with Tristyn Conner.
Nicole Flores was named Administrative Deputy of the Year. An 11-year veteran, Flores works in bookkeeping, programs, and reception, and was honored for her initiative, efficiency, and strong work ethic.
“She works more on the administrative side, kind of behind the scenes,” Maglinger said. “She was nominated for her initiative, efficiency, and being proactive in her daily duties.”
Additional awards include the Jailer’s Award, Honorable Service awards, Military Service awards, and a Community Service Award presented to Kalen Cobb for his involvement in parades, memorial services, and other outreach efforts representing the detention center.
Life-saving awards are also being presented to several deputies, including Lane Dickens, James Sands, James Barkman, and Billy Johnson, for their actions in emergency situations.
“There were two supervisors who performed the Heimlich maneuver and were able to save a woman’s life,” Maglinger said.
Other recognitions stemmed from a January incident in which staff responded to a fire set by an inmate, with several deputies receiving Medals of Valor for evacuating and assisting inmates before first responders arrived.
“There were deputies recognized for not only addressing the fire and getting that inmate to safety, but also evacuating and rescuing other inmates before the fire department arrived,” Maglinger said.
Maglinger said the purpose of the week is to bring attention to the role correctional officers play in the community.
“Corrections is often out of sight and out of mind,” he said. “This week is just a time to pause and recognize their important service to the community.”
