From WRIL -
On Tuesday October 8, 2019 Bell County Sheriff Mitch Williams was honored with an award in a ceremony held at the Gondolier restaurant in Harrogate by the Wilderness Road Kiwanis Club.
The award is in honor of 39 year old Lee County Virginia Sheriff’s Sgt. John Lee Martin. Martin’s life was taken in November of 1988 while investigating a suspicious vehicle. The suspect opened fire on Martin and he died a short time later from his wounds. The suspect was later apprehended and sentenced to life in prison. Martin was in law enforcement for 17 years.
The initial recipient of the award was Effingham, Illinois Sheriff Art Kinkelaar for his efforts in bringing Sgt. Martin’s killer to justice.
On hand to speak was Bell County District Attorney Karen Green Blondell and KSP Post 10 Captain Ryan Catron. Both Blondell and Catron spoke about Williams’ time with the Kentucky State Police and his current terms as sheriff for Bell County. They both highlighted Williams’ willingness to work with several departments and jurisdictions to police the area and provide assistance when needed.
Once presented the award, Williams spoke about his team of deputies and those that have backed and guided him throughout his time in law enforcement. The sheriff went on to say how important it is to have a trusted support staff and how grateful he was to have people he can depend on working in the county to better their community.
Former recipients include D. A. Karen Green Blondell, Deputy Jared Smith, Deputy Sean Pursifull and K-9 King, Lee County Sheriff Gary Parsons, and Atty General Paul Phillips.