Gordon County Sheriff Mitch Ralston has announced that Jail Administrator Major Pat Bedford has been awarded the prestigious “Dedication to Excellence Award” by the National Institute of Jail Operations (NIJO).
The honor was presented last week during NIJO’s annual training conference, held in Mobile, Alabama. The award recognizes individuals who “go above and beyond normal expectations to ensure the safety and security of staff, inmates, and the general public.”
Major Bedford, a veteran law enforcement officer with more than 30 years of service, has served as jail administrator under Sheriff Ralston since 2009. During his tenure, Bedford has overseen daily operations of the Gordon County Jail, ensuring compliance with state and national standards while prioritizing safety and professionalism.
Sheriff Ralston praised Bedford’s dedication, noting that the award reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence in corrections management and public safety.
“Major Bedford’s leadership and integrity have made a lasting impact on our agency and community,” Sheriff Ralston said. “This recognition is well deserved.”
The National Institute of Jail Operations is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to advancing training, leadership, and professional standards within correctional institutions across the United States.
