Deputy receives law enforcement recognition

By MICHAEL ERB, merb@newsandsentinel.com
PARKERSBURG — The Wood County Deputy Sheriff’s Association honored one of its own Thursday as David Tennant was named the 2007 Wood County Deputy of the Year.

Tennant, a 10-year veteran of the Wood County Sheriff’s Department, received a plaque presented to him by Sheriff Ken Merritt. Tennant was chosen by his peers for his work as a patrolman and as part of the county’s Crash Team.

“He is taking this for the whole county,” Merritt said. “He is very deserving, and I’m very proud of him.”

Merritt said the annual recognition helps the department and law enforcement to recognize the deputies for their good work.

“They put their life on the line all the time and we just need to recognize what they do and thank God for it,” Merritt said.

Sgt. Shawn Graham, president of the local association, said Tennant is the third deputy to receive the award, which started in 2005. All three recipients have worked the night shift road patrol, one of the most dangerous shift assignments for deputies.

Graham said Tennant has earned the honor with his actions, his work ethic and his ability to do the job.

“If I were a bad guy, I wouldn’t want him chasing me,” Graham said.

Tennant said he was honored to receive the recognition.

“It means I’ve earned the respect of my co-workers, and I appreciate that,” he said.