The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) reports a 4% overall decrease in crime across the county in its 2024 annual statistical review, with significant fluctuations in key categories such as burglary, assault and drug-related offenses.
The report outlines the agency’s performance in its core operational areas: law enforcement services, corrections services and administrative services. According to the data, HCSO deputies responded to 78,929 calls for service and deputy-initiated activities across the county in 2024.
Sheriff Austin Garrett attributed the agency’s continued progress to its focus on innovation, professionalism and strategic resource deployment.
“Together, we are one team, with one mission, leading the way,” Garrett writes in his introductory message. “Your sheriff’s office is committed to ensuring the safety of our county while maintaining a focus on providing the highest level of customer service, professional law enforcement and corrections services and innovation.”
Crime statistics show mixed trends
In the unincorporated areas of Hamilton County, reported burglaries increased 10%, rising from 155 in 2023 to 170 in 2024. However, vandalism dropped by 14%, with 203 incidents reported compared to 237 the previous year. Theft-related crimes saw overall reductions, including an 18% decrease in vehicle-related thefts (303 to 247) and a 6% decrease in building thefts (108 to 102).
Violent crime categories had varied results. Aggravated assaults rose 10% (from 184 to 202) while simple assaults increased 3% (from 493 to 506). Homicides decreased by 33%, dropping from three in 2023 to two in 2024. Reports of intimidation or harassment jumped 61% (from 100 to 161), while rape reports remained unchanged at 18 cases for the second consecutive year.
The number of fatal shooting incidents doubled from one to two, while non-fatal shootings remained consistent at three incidents.
Drug and public safety enforcement
Drug-related investigations and arrests continue to be a focal point for HCSO. Drug and narcotics offenses rose 6% to 957, while equipment-related offenses increased 1%. Overdose deaths related to opioids rose by 25%, from four to five. Meanwhile, non-fatal overdose investigations dropped slightly, from 122 to 120.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) cases climbed 10% (from 262 to 288) due to proactive enforcement efforts. Public intoxication arrests increased by 16% (from 57 to 66), while disorderly conduct cases declined sharply by 42% (from 132 to 77).
“The foundation of our agency’s success is built on our brand and the steadfast commitment of our people to professionalism, customer service-driven law enforcement, and the adoption of innovative practices and technologies,” Garrett states.
School safety and youth outreach
HCSO’s School Resource Deputy (SRD) Unit included 39 deputies serving 33 public and six charter schools in 2024. Deputies investigated 103 school threats, charged 321 students, and recovered five firearms from school campuses.
SRDs and D.A.R.E. instructors delivered 174 educational presentations.
Corrections services and jail operations
HCSO booked 14,432 inmates at the Hamilton County Jail & Detention Center in 2024, maintaining an average daily population of 1,067 inmates in the 1,196-bed facility. The daily cost per inmate was $86.57.
There were five in-custody deaths last year, up from three in 2023. The medical examiner’s office ruled every death as either accidental (overdose), suicide or natural. Jail operations saw improvements in cost-efficiency, with a $2.5 million reduction in operating costs.
Additionally, inmate health care services recorded over 7,400 physicals, 6,700 sick calls, 2,800 mental health services and 543 external medical appointments.
Grant funding and innovation
HCSO secured more than $13 million in federal, state and local grants in 2024. Key grants included the Tennessee Statewide Student Resource Officer Grant and over $1 million from the Mental Health Transport Grant. These funds supported patrol operations, school safety and non-custodial mental health transports.
“With a focus on professionalism, exceptional customer service and innovation, we will continue to adapt to the evolving needs and challenges of our community,” Garrett writes. “The future holds great promise for 2025.”
Workforce development and recruitment
The HCSO hired 83 full-time employees in 2024, while 71 personnel left the agency (50 resigned, 13 retired and eight were terminated). The HCSO Recruiting Unit expanded its community outreach and digital presence, including the launch of its Instagram profile (@hcsorecruitingtn), and participated in national recruitment events.
“Under my leadership, we will remain focused on the principles of data-driven law enforcement,” Garrett adds, highlighting the use of the agency’s Crime and Intelligence Analysis Unit and online Crime Data Dashboard.
As HCSO moves into 2025, Garrett emphasizes that his administration remains committed to excellence, safety and community service.
“The dedicated men and women of the HCSO will continue – as our motto states – to lead the way.”