On June 10, 2026, the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) proudly recognized several exceptional corrections professionals during the Corrections Professionals Awards Luncheon at the JAILCON26 Western Regional Conference in Chandler, Arizona. These individuals have distinguished themselves through dedicated service, exemplary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the corrections profession and the communities they serve.
Tate McCotter, NIJO Executive Director and Melissa Bjergo, NIJO Director of Agency Development & Partnerships, presented the awards and also recognized agencies and individuals who had earned NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.Â
NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.
JAILCON26 Western Region
Corrections Professionals Awards
CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Mark Moore
Custodial Manager, Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Custodial Manager Mark Moore’s innovative leadership and commitment to improving operations and staff efficiency earned this nomination. After identifying that the department’s paper-based record-keeping process was outdated and inefficient, he collaborated with the agency’s I.T. department to develop a standalone electronic record-keeping system for custodial operations. Staff can now document completed work electronically, including uploading photos of cleaned or maintained areas through a custom mobile application using office-issued cell phones. No more handwritten records, long-term paper storage, and his work freed valuable space while improving accountability, accessibility, and cybersecurity.
Mark is a dedicated and supportive manager who advocates for his team and highlights the essential work custodial staff perform behind the scenes to keep detention facilities operating smoothly. His leadership, forward-thinking approach, and commitment to professional growth have made a lasting positive impact on both his staff and the entire agency. Congratulations to Mark Moore of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office for being recognized as the Civilian Employee of the Year.
HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
This year, two individuals were selected to receive the Healthcare Professional of the Year Award. Both demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and professionalism while navigating uniquely challenging circumstances. Their commitment to their teams, facility operations, and the mission of safety and rehabilitation exemplified the high standard of excellence this award was created to recognize.
Hillary McClelland
Health Services Administrator, Med Health - Laramie County Sheriff's Office, WY
Since joining the correctional nursing team at Laramie County Detention Center last year, Hillary McClelland has quickly distinguished herself through her exceptional clinical expertise, professionalism, and commitment to improving patient care. Drawing from her elite background in ICU and ER services, she seamlessly transitioned into the demanding world of correctional medicine and rapidly earned the respect of both her colleagues and facility leadership.
As Health Services Administrator, Hillary has transformed medical operations within the facility. Through her leadership, overdue psychiatric tasks have been reduced by more than 50 percent, and offsite medical security needs have decreased significantly through improved collaboration and problem-solving. Her efforts have enhanced nursing productivity and strengthened partnerships between medical and security staff.
Hillary is a passionate advocate for correctional nursing and has played a vital role in recruitment efforts during a national healthcare staffing shortage. She has also strengthened community partnerships and fostered productive communication with local healthcare providers, helping resolve challenges quickly and effectively.
Hillary leads with positivity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her team. She approaches every challenge with confidence, professionalism, and compassion, making a lasting impact on staff, patients, and the facility as a whole.
For her remarkable leadership, dedication to excellence, and commitment to advancing correctional healthcare, we recognize Hillary McLelland with the Healthcare Professional of the Year Award.
Miguel Uribe
Program Manager, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Miguel Uribe’s dedication to the Seriously Mentally Ill population within the Yavapai County Detention Facility exemplifies compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to service. He goes far beyond stabilization efforts, providing critical support, advocacy, and coordinated care to some of the facility’s most vulnerable individuals. Through extensive release planning and collaboration, Miguel ensures inmates are placed in safe and appropriate environments that promote long-term stability and success.
Miguel has built meaningful trust and rapport with inmates through consistent guidance, encouragement, and genuine care. His well-known phrase, “make good choices,” has become a reflection of the positive influence he has on those he serves, with inmates often repeating it back to him as a sign of respect and connection.
Miguel’s impact extends beyond the walls of the detention facility. He provides exceptional support to inmates’ families, treating every concern with patience, empathy, and professionalism. Families consistently express gratitude for the time, attention, and compassion he gives to their loved ones during difficult circumstances.
Miguel is a valued and trusted member of the detention team. He treats staff with respect and kindness, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. His integrity, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond make him an irreplaceable asset to the Yavapai County Detention Facility. Miguel’s profound impact on inmates, families, staff, and the overall standard of care within the facility makes him exceptionally deserving of this award.
DETENTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Meagan Delahanty
Detention Officer, Pinal County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Officer Meagan Delahanty has quickly distinguished herself as an exceptional leader, instructor, and role model within the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Adult Detention Center. Since joining the agency in December 2023, she has gone above and beyond in every assignment entrusted to her. As an AZPOST Certified Pistol, Rifle, and Taser Instructor, she has become deeply involved in the training division, consistently seeking innovative ways to improve instruction and support new hires.
In intake, Officer Delahanty developed detailed training resources that have become invaluable to newly assigned officers, demonstrating both initiative and dedication to the success of others. She also created and leads a physical fitness preparation program for cadets awaiting the academy, often training them after completing a full overnight shift. Her commitment, professionalism, humility, and positive attitude set the standard for others to follow.
Officer Delahanty treats staff and inmates alike with respect and professionalism, ensures policies and procedures are upheld, and consistently demonstrates unwavering dedication to the mission of the Sheriff’s Office. Her work ethic, leadership, and selfless commitment to training and mentoring others make her exceptionally deserving of this award.
DETENTION SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Corporal Joel Lomeli
Yuma County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (AZ) Corporal Joel Lomeli’s nomination noted his leadership, professionalism, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the mission of the Sheriff’s Office. He has consistently demonstrated sound judgment, accountability, and a strong dedication to both staff development and inmate safety on repeated occasions in the last year.
For example, when Corporal Lomeli discovered a suspicious package during a routine perimeter check. He immediately notified his chain of command, established a secure perimeter, and followed protocol with calm professionalism until deputies and the Bomb Squad safely resolved the situation.
During a medical emergency involving an inmate with a severe self-inflicted injury, Corporal Lomeli quickly applied a tourniquet using his belt before backup arrived, controlling the bleeding and preventing further harm. His swift response directly reflected his commitment to preserving life and maintaining safety under pressure.
Corporal Lomeli continually improves operations through initiative and leadership. He identified deficiencies in documentation procedures, created a new department-approved form, and helped implement it agency-wide to improve accountability and accuracy.
In addition to his supervisory duties, Corporal Lomeli serves on the Honor Guard, assists with academy and scenario-based training, mentors younger officers, and contributes as a CIRT member. His professionalism, leadership, and dedication to service make him highly respected among his peers and clearly deserving of the Detention Supervisor of the Year Award.
DETENTION ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Two recipients for the Detention Administrator of the Year Award have been recognized who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to their facilities and staff, reflecting the depth of talent, dedication and commitment in the corrections profession.
Lieutenant Darin Durfey
Tooele County Sheriff's Office, UT
Lt. Darin Durfey of the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office, UT, exemplifies the professionalism, leadership, and innovation that define excellence in corrections administration. With more than 30 years of public safety experience—including service with the Utah State Prison, Utah County Jail, and the Tooele County Sheriff’s Office—he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving jail operations, developing staff, and enhancing community safety.
As Jail Commander and Administrator, Lt. Durfey has led transformative improvements within the Tooele County Jail during a time of significant operational challenges. His leadership resulted in the successful implementation of the RISE inmate program, which has significantly reduced recidivism rates and strengthened offender rehabilitation efforts. He has also played a key role in opioid response initiatives through the Tooele County Opioid Response Network (TORN), helping connect incarcerated individuals with treatment and recovery resources.
Lt. Durfey has modernized jail operations through comprehensive policy reform, standardized training protocols, updated technology systems, and proactive risk mitigation planning. His efforts have improved operational efficiency, reduced liability, and contributed to measurable decreases in use-of-force incidents and inmate assaults.
Equally important is his dedication to mentoring and developing staff. Lt. Durfey invests heavily in coaching supervisors and command staff, building a strong leadership foundation for the future of the organization. His professionalism, integrity, and ability to lead by example have earned him the respect of his peers and the confidence of those he serves alongside.
For his outstanding leadership, commitment to excellence, and lasting impact on corrections operations and community safety, Lt. Darin Durfey is highly deserving of the NIJO Detention Administrator of the Year Award.
Commander Kenneth Bradshaw
Cochise County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Commander Kenneth “Kenny” Bradshaw of the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, AZ, is highly deserving of the Administrator of the Year Award for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service. With more than 15 years as the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Detention Commander, and prior experience as an administrator within the Arizona State prison system, Commander Bradshaw has consistently demonstrated vision, integrity, and operational excellence in correctional management.
Throughout his tenure, Commander Bradshaw has played a critical role in improving the jail environment, strengthening relationships with community partners, and promoting innovation and public safety. His leadership was instrumental in the successful passage and re-establishment of the Cochise County Jail District, helping secure support for a modern, state-of-the-art detention facility designed to better serve the community, staff, and justice system for years to come.
Commander Bradshaw has fostered a culture of professionalism, accountability, and teamwork through proactive policy development, enhanced training programs, and strong communication with staff. He has also championed inmate reintegration opportunities and collaborated extensively with internal and external stakeholders to improve correctional outcomes.
Widely regarded as a trusted leader and mentor, Commander Bradshaw is known for bringing people together to solve problems and implement meaningful change. His advocacy for border county detention facilities on a national level has elevated awareness of the unique challenges faced by border jurisdictions.
Commander Bradshaw’s dedication, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence has had a lasting impact on the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, the detention profession, and the community he serves.Â
DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD
We are proud to recognize two incredibly deserving individuals with this year’s Dedication to Excellence Award who exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, commitment, and service to the corrections field. Their tireless work, consistent excellence, and unwavering dedication stood out in every way.
Detention Deputy Eliezer Manzano
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Detention Deputy Manzano of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office was recognized as the Detention Officer of the Year. With more than 20 years of dedicated service and over a decade assigned to Towers Jail, Detention Deputy Manzano consistently demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and exceptional operational competence. His vigilance and decisive actions during a critical incident involving a potential inmate overdose helped prevent a serious medical emergency and reflected his unwavering commitment to safety and security.
Detention Deputy Manzano further strengthens facility operations by earning certification on the LINEV Conpass Smart Dual View X-Ray system, enhancing contraband detection capabilities while also training fellow staff members on its use. His leadership extends beyond his assigned duties, as he regularly mentors new detention officers, volunteers for critical operations, and consistently steps up wherever needed. His outstanding attendance record, strong work ethic, and willingness to exceed expectations make him a trusted and respected member of the Towers Jail Division.
Detention Deputy Manzano also serves his community as a church music director and volunteer, demonstrating the same commitment to service, mentorship, and leadership that defines his career in corrections. Through his professionalism, dedication, and selfless service, Detention Deputy Manzano exemplifies the highest standards of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and is exceptionally deserving of this Dedication to Excellence Award.
Lieutenant Jodie King
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, WY
Lieutenant Jodie King from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, WY, was honored with the Dedication to Excellence Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, resilience, and commitment to those she serves. Throughout her career, Lieutenant King has fostered an environment built on mutual respect, accountability, and safety for both staff and inmates.
She consistently leads by example, mentoring and developing those under her command while sharing her extensive knowledge of jail operations to help others grow professionally. Her innovative work with Department of Corrections inmates, along with improvements to emergency detention processes, has strengthened facility operations and created a safer environment for individuals in crisis.
As Sgt. Ashley Stevens shared, “Lt. King is a leader who takes the time to understand her people on both a professional and personal level. Her compassion and level of understanding has been of huge significance in leadership with her team to create a sense of belonging and teamwork.”
Sgt. Garrett Silva added, “Lt. King has shown me that an agency is more than just a workplace, but a family of individuals with common goals who support one another.”
What truly sets Lieutenant King apart is her unwavering resilience and dedication to her team. Despite facing ongoing personal health challenges, she continues to serve with strength, determination, and compassion every day. More than a survivor, she has proved herself to be a warrior.
Through her leadership, mentorship, and steadfast commitment to excellence, Lieutenant King has made a lasting impact on her agency, her colleagues, and the individuals entrusted to her care. She is truly deserving of this recognition.
DISTINGUISHED VALOR AWARD
Lieutenant Samuel Beene
Chaves County Sheriff's Office, NM
Lieutenant Samuel Beene was honored with the Distinguished Valor Award in recognition of his extraordinary courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to duty. While conducting routine security checks and interacting with detainees in one of the facility’s highest-risk housing units, Lt. Beene was violently and unexpectedly assaulted by multiple detainees. Despite sustaining severe lacerations and a concussion during the attack, his immediate concern remained for the safety and well-being of those around him.
Following medical treatment and recovery, Lt. Beene returned to duty with professionalism, integrity, and compassion, refusing to allow the actions of others to change the way he serves. He continued his work as Safety Coordinator and Compliance Lieutenant with the same commitment and attention to detail that define his leadership. Even while facing a personal battle with cancer, Lt. Beene has remained devoted to his work family and the mission of Chaves County, consistently expressing his desire to return and continue serving.
Lt. Beene’s courage in the face of danger, perseverance through adversity, and steadfast dedication to corrections embody the true meaning of valor. His service is an inspiration to all who work beside him.
DETENTION FACILITY INNOVATION AWARD
In recognition of outstanding efforts to improve operations, implement forward-thinking solutions, and lead by example in the face of ongoing challenges.Â
Yellowstone County Detention Center, MT
The Yellowstone County Detention Facility was honored with the Detention Facility Innovation Award in recognition of its remarkable transformation in leadership, staffing, safety, and operations.
Originally opened in 1987 as a 180-bed facility, Yellowstone County Detention Facility experienced decades of growth as inmate populations steadily exceeded capacity. By 2022, the facility faced significant challenges, including severe overcrowding, staffing shortages, mandatory overtime, declining morale, and increasing safety concerns. Following a major escape incident, agency leadership recognized the need for immediate and innovative change.
Under the leadership of Lieutenant Lester and a renewed command staff, the facility embarked on a comprehensive cultural and operational transformation. Hiring practices were restructured to streamline recruitment while maintaining high standards, resulting in near-full staffing by 2025 despite the addition of new housing units and officer positions. Accountability and supervisory presence became organizational priorities, with Sergeants and newly established Corporal positions conducting daily housing unit walkthroughs on every shift.
Operational improvements also transformed inmate management practices. The implementation of short-term housing units and expedited arraignment courts helped reduce facility strain while restoring arrest authority to patrol officers. Within the facility, consistent rule enforcement, enhanced security measures, structured inmate movement, and increased officer presence significantly improved order, safety, and overall operations.
The results were extraordinary. Staff morale and retention improved, overtime shifted from mandatory to voluntary, assaults and use-of-force incidents declined significantly, and the overall environment of the facility was transformed. Despite ongoing population challenges, Yellowstone County Detention Facility became cleaner, safer, better staffed, and more professionally operated than at any point in recent history.
The facility’s success demonstrated how strong leadership, accountability, innovation, and a commitment to cultural change can revitalize even the most challenged correctional environments, making Yellowstone County Detention Facility a deserving recipient of the Detention Facility Innovation Award.
O. LANE McCOTTER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AWARD
Sheriff Mark Dannels
Cochise County, AZ
The Executive Director Award goes to an individual that has made a significant and profound impact upon our profession that may fit outside of the scope of the other awards announced here but deserves recognition.
This year’s O. Lane McCotter Executive Director Award was presented to Sheriff Mark Dannels of Cochise County, AZ, in recognition of his extraordinary leadership, unwavering commitment to public safety, and profound impact on the corrections and law enforcement professions.
Throughout his career, Sheriff Dannels continues to distinguish himself as a tireless advocate for both his staff and the communities he serves. His leadership extends far beyond the boundaries of Cochise County, influencing policy and practice at the local, state, and national levels. As a champion for the construction of a new detention facility, he has worked relentlessly to address critical infrastructure needs, advocating before county leaders, voters, and state legislators to secure the resources necessary to support safe and effective correctional operations.
Sheriff Dannels has also served in numerous leadership roles that have shaped the future of law enforcement and corrections, including President of the Southwest Border Sheriffs’ Coalition, Immediate Past President of the Western States Sheriffs’ Association (WSSA), and a member of the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Advisory Council. Through these positions, he has helped advance important conversations and initiatives affecting jails and detention facilities across the nation.
Perhaps most importantly, Sheriff Dannels has earned a reputation as a leader who genuinely cares about people. Whether mentoring young people, supporting his staff, advocating for public safety professionals, or strengthening relationships within the community, he consistently demonstrated integrity, compassion, and servant leadership.
For his positioning and his resilience in defending what is right, and for being an example in the law enforcement profession, it was an honor to present Sheriff Dannels with the O. Lane McCotter Executive Director Award.Â
NIJO National Accredication Recognition
NIJO Accreditation is an established process for correctional administrators to verify and be recognized nationally as compliant to what the law requires to run a constitutionally safe facility. As the only such accreditation in the country, NIJO promulgates over 600 Legal-Based GuidelinesTM specific to each state, to ensure that detention and correctional facilities comply with current legal requirements applicable to each state, circuit court and federal rulings and statutes. Achieving accreditation is not a walk in the park. It requires legal-based policies and procedures, documentation and consistency on all levels.
Graham County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Graham County Sheriff’s Office has completed their second year of inspection, becoming the 4th agency in Arizona to seek accreditation. We are proud to recognize this outstanding accomplishment.
Congratulations to Sheriff Allred, Commander TJ Perez and the entire Graham County Detention staff for your dedication and hard work!
Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
As the 3rd agency in Arizona to seek accreditation, Navajo County Sheriff’s Office started their National Accreditation strong by achieving a Level I accreditation, the highest level achievable.Â
Congratulations to Sheriff Clouse, Chief Garcia, LT Peterson, and the entire Navajo County Sheriff’s Office and Detention staff for this accomplishment!
Pinal County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Pinal County Sheriff’s Office recently completed another pre-inspection and on-site inspection starting their 3rd accreditation cycle. Again, Pinal has shown their commitment to running a legally-defensible and sound facility by achieving a Level I accreditation.Â
Congratulations to Sheriff Teeple, Captain Darrin Rushing, and the entire Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and Detention staff for this accomplishment!
Pima County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Pima County Adult Detention Complex was first agency in Arizona to be recognized for achieving NIJO National Accreditation. They recently completed their third year of their third cycle, meaning they have maintained their accreditation for over 9 years. Pima County has shown their commitment to running a legally-defensible and sound facility by achieving a Level I accreditation, again, the highest level achievable
Congratulations to the staff at Pima County Adult Detention Complex!Â
NIJO Professional Certification
Professional Certification through the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) was created to offer a highly respected national certification to individuals seeking a curriculum rooted in legal principles. This certification is not just issued, but earned, showcasing the expertise and competency of jail and detention officers, supervisors, administrators, and sheriffs. NIJO offers three distinct levels of certification for those aiming for career growth and progression in their field.
National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE)
The following individuals were recognized for earning the designation of National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE), a credential that requires the successful completion of 115 hours of legal-based training and the achievement of a 100% score on all certification examinations.
Lieutenant Charalie Anne Perkins
Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
National Certified Corrections Supervisor (NCCS)
The following individuals were recognized for earning the designation of National Certified Corrections Supervisor (NCCS), a credential that requires the successful completion of 70 hours of legal-based training and the achievement of a 100% score on all tests.
Corporal Iain Huntington
Graham County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Corporal Joseph Ibarra
Graham County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Sergeant Bryanne Yates
Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
National Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO)
The following individuals were recognized for earning the designation of National Certified Corrections Officer (NCCO), a credential that requires the successful completion of 40 hours of legal-based training and the achievement of a 100% score on all tests.
Donald Adams
Detention Deputy, Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Roby Garcia
Detention Deputy, Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Josiah Moffatt
Detention Deputy, Navajo County Sheriff's Office, AZ
Congratulations to all of these outstanding and dedicated professionals and their agencies. We are proud to recognize these outstanding corrections professional, who are all too often, the unsung heroes of law enforcement. Â