The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club recently recognized three Forsyth County sheriff’s deputies at the club’s 2023 Respect for Law program: Deputy First Class Joshua Thomas, Deputy Taylor Swofford, and Deputy Michael Jones. At the club meeting, the deputies were presented plaques with the inscription "For distinguished and dedicated service advancing the respect for law objective of Optimist International."

"Among a variety of programs to bring out the best in youth and communities, honoring law enforcement officials is one of the tenants of the Optimist Club,” explained club president Carolynn Martin. “Our goal is to inspire respect for law enforcement among young people and to educate them on the vital jobs of law enforcement men and women."

"Being recognized as Deputies of the Year by the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club is a great honor, and these three deputies serve this community with distinction and honor..."

"I’m so proud of the men and women of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office," said Sheriff Ron Freeman. "Being recognized as Deputies of the Year by the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club is a great honor, and these three deputies serve this community with distinction and honor."

"This award is a small token representing the collective enthusiasm and gratitude we have for the self-sacrifice and desire Deputies Thomas, Swofford, and Jones have shown to make Forsyth County an ideal place to live and work," remarked club vice president and Respect for Law committee chairperson Robyn Ulatowski. "We are proud to honor them representing everyone in Sheriff Freeman’s department."