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During the 19th annual Law Enforcement Challenge sponsored by the Tennessee Highway Safety Office, the Walters State Campus Police Department was named as the top college police force.

The Challenge took place on Friday, Aug. 4 and 73 law enforcement applications were submitted.

The award recipients were chosen based on several factors to include efforts where safe driving was promoted on campus.

“Our four campuses are among the safest in the state due to the efforts of our Campus Police officers,” Dr. Tony Miksa, president of Walters State, said. “I see the hard work of our officers every day, and I am very pleased to see their efforts recognized by the Tennessee Highway Safety Office.”

Sgt. Corey Stapleton of the Walters State Campus Police provided some insight.

“The award is based on regular reports; policies for speed detection and other enforcement areas; and the department’s traffic education and awareness efforts,” Stapleton said.

Campus police officers are certified through the Peace Officer’s Standards and Training Commission, and these officers on the Walters State campuses have full arrest and investigative powers.

The THSO, which hosted the event, is a division of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security advocating for traffic safety.