8th Annual Shop with Sheriff Smith and Justice Helped 63 Weakley County Children

Shannon Taylor, Editor

This year’s Shop with Sheriff Smith and Justice was able to help 63 Weakley County Children with Christmas who received approximately $160 each according to Weakley County Sheriff’s Department Investigator Eric Smith who started the program eight years ago.

Smith is a Covington native and became a published author in 2014 when he came out with a children’s book titled, Sheriff Smith and Justice Investigate The Bedroom Monster. Children are able to interact with the book and become special deputies as they solve the mystery of the bedroom monster. Smith wanted to help build a positive bridge between children and law enforcement. 

The main fundraiser for the event is their annual golf tournament, along with numerous participating Weakley County businesses who sponsor holes.

Sponsors included Greenfield Banking Company, The Sideline, FCR, Jolley Realty, West TN Automotive, Dresden Police Department, Martin Motor Company, Vaughn Roofing, Rusty Young Attorney at Law, Davis Automotive, Captain Marty Plunk, Unger and Godwin, Michelob Ultra, Bill Randolph, Paul Hutcherson, Van Swaim, James Washburn, Simply Southern, James Motor Company, 3:11 Construction and Restoration, Stanley Black and Decker, Performance Chiropractic,Akin and Porter Produce, Fitness 1440, KR Trucking, Farm Bureau, Crestview Service Center, Dynamix Physical Therapy, Color Shop Construction, DR. David Long, Primrose, WCMT Thunderbolt, Law Offices of Bradberry and Pemberton, Reynolds Brothers Tire Company, E.W. James and Sons, B. Elam CMA, Martin Powersports, The Purple Iris, WCSD, Nutrien Ag Solutions, The Bank of Gleason, Skyhawk Rentals, Weakley County Backpack Program, Claire & Schuster Interiors, Gearin Law Firm, Southern Grace, Gleason Flower Market and Gifts, Gleason Police Department, Urban Designs, The Flower Box, CJ’s Stationhouse, Colin Johnson, Woodmen Life, Westcoast Firearms, Keith Kemp, Ronnie’s Bail Bonds, and The Court Square Deli. 

“All of the golfers always donate extra money when they come and play and we receive other donations from businesses and citizens,” Smith stated. 

Smith said that several other businesses stepped up to offer additional support including Woodmen Life in Martin, Dresden, Gleason and Greenfield, McDonalds and Hillview Community Living Center. 

According to Martin Police Department’s Assistant Chief of Police Phillip Fuqua, this year was the largest turnout of officers ever with over 40 officers attending the event. Departments participating included Weakley County Sheriff’s Department, Martin Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, TDOC Probation and Parole, DEA, Department of Children's Services, Gleason Police Department, Dresden Police Department, UTM Police Department, the District Attorney's Office and Sharon Police Department.

“All agencies enjoy this special event every year. Being able to give a child Christmas is a special feeling for all of us. None of this would be possible without law enforcement and the great sponsors every year,” said Weakley County Sheriff Terry McDade.

Smith said that this year’s event had help from numerous volunteers, The Color Shop in Martin provided blankets and Sand Hill Church provided food for each child. 

“I just wanted to remind everyone of how thankful we are for all of your donations and support. We are very thankful for the support of the community,” Smith said.