(See video link below)

Tallahassee, Fla. (January 28, 2011) -The Florida Sheriffs Association is pleased to announce that Marie McClamma of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office was the recipient of this year’s Correctional Officer of the Year Award. This week at the Florida Sheriffs Association Mid-Winter Conference in Amelia Island, FSA President Sheriff Harrell Reid of Hamiliton County, Jefferson County Sheriff David Hobbs and Florida Governor Rick Scott presented McClamma with her award, recognizing the distinguished deputy for her dedication and commitment to law enforcement and public safety.

Florida Governor Rick Scott, Corrections Deputy Marie McClamma and Jefferson County Sheriff David Hobbs following the 2011 Correctional Officer of the Year Award presentation.

“We offer thanks to the thousands of Florida corrections officers who work in our county jails,” said Steve Casey, executive director of the Florida Sheriffs Association. “Their jobs are dangerous and often go without recognition. We are honored to have the opportunity to help tell their story by highlighting the heroic actions of Jefferson County Corrections Deputy Marie McClamma.”

Throughout her tenure at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy McClamma has continually exemplified determination and courage while serving and protecting her community. Last year, while working in the Jefferson County Jail, McClamma fought for her life (and that of her unborn baby) when a prisoner she was escorting attacked her in an effort to break out of jail. She was willing to do whatever was necessary to prevent the prisoner from escaping, without regard to her own wellbeing. McClamma fought the inmate through the hallway and an office, where he attacked her with scissors and a taser gun. She was able to maintain the upper hand and stop him from escaping until additional deputies arrived to assist in subduing the inmate.

At the time of the attack, McClamma was 7 months pregnant. Today, she is the proud mother of a healthy baby girl and is grateful for the appreciation and outpouring of support from the community. While she recognizes the risks law enforcement and corrections officers take every day, she is determined to do her best no matter what the day brings. Being a Corrections Deputy is a career that she is passionate about—and she and her family are grateful for a positive outcome.

“Deputy McClamma served our community with courage and dedication in the face of danger,” Jefferson County Sheriff David Hobbs said at the ceremony. “Our entire staff is proud to see her efforts recognized as we continue to protect and serve countless Floridians.”

# # #

Watch the video interview, as Corrections Deputy McClamma relives those courageous moments.

Production by Thurgaland, sheriffvideo.com

For more information:

Nanette Schimpf, APR

Moore Consulting Group

850-224-0174 work or 850-528-2639 cell