Sheriff’s Officers of the Year

Detective Steve Brown and Detective Ryan Huggins were selected as the Exchange Club Officers of the Year by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

They were chosen for their extensive investigation to solve the murder of sports enthusiast Terry Barber, who was found deceased inside his Christiana home June 26.

Initial evidence at the scene did not yield any positive leads for the detectives. But through their diligence, arrests were made within four days.

The detectives worked around the clock. They collected evidence, talked with witnesses and worked with other law enforcement agencies from Murfreesboro to Tampa, Florida.

Detectives Brown and Huggins identified and located three people believed responsible for Terry Barber’s death.

Two suspects were located in Rutherford County and a third suspect was located in Florida. They were charged with first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping of Barber.

All three suspects are awaiting trial at Rutherford County Adult Detention Center.

Solving murder cases are difficult. The investigation requires a strong work ethic and dedication to providing a resolution for the victims and families.

Detectives Brown and Huggins represent the very definition of commitment. Their relentless drive, methodical examination and allegiance to their duties are a model illustration for the professionalism and passion necessary for a successful investigation.

For their work on this case and other cases, Detectives Brown and Huggins are awarded the Officers of the Year for the Noon Exchange Club.