Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero and Police Chief David Rausch named Sgt. Sammy Shaffer the 2017 Officer of the Year.  Sgt. Shaffer has been with KPD since October 2001. 

This marks Sgt. Shaffer’s second time being named Officer of the Year receiving the honor in 2005.   

There is hardly a unit or division in the department that Sgt. Shaffer does not touch in some way.  His assigned duty as Special Services Supervisor includes coordinating the Neighborhood Bike Officers, is the point of contact for the City Parks and Knoxville Greenway Commission, is involved in the Safe Bicycling initiative, ensures the Skywatch and message boards are deployed and maintained, and is responsible for fleet management, inventory, and budget for KPD bicycles.  In addition, Sgt. Shaffer is responsible for the transportation wagon training and budget as well as being tasked as the Marine Unit Commander and the Explorer Post Advisor.  

Sgt. Shaffer has also been dedicated in other areas of the department.  He is a team member of the Explosive Ordinance Detail Unit (EOD) and is the Team Commander of the newly formed Unmanned Aircraft System Team.  Sgt. Shaffer serves as the department’s Homeland Security Coordinator where he coordinates training, procedures, response, and activities pertaining to the prevention of, and protection from man-made, technological, and natural events.  He is also an instructor to officers and citizens for the KPD Training Academy as well as the Liaison Officer to the Knox County Emergency Communications District (E911).  

Chief Rausch said, “It is an honor to present the Officer of the Year Award to Sgt. Shaffer.  He exceeds the duty requirements expected of his position every day while delivering outstanding service and dedication to the department and the citizens of Knoxville.  Thank you for your outstanding performance, commitment, and for a job well done.”