From the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office:

Crossville, TN — The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) marked a historic milestone today as twelve deputies graduated from the agency’s newly launched Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) program in a ceremony held Wednesday evening. Deputies were trained in life-saving EMR procedures by Cumberland County EMS training staff under the direction of EMS Director Chris Miller.

The Sheriff’s Office already has one deputy who is a certified EMT. This brings the total number of medically trained deputies to thirteen, significantly enhancing the office’s ability to provide immediate medical care in critical situations.

Sheriff Casey Cox spearheaded the initiative by including the EMR program in the 2026 county budget—which was fully endorsed by both Mayor Allen Foster and the Cumberland County Commission. “This is about saving lives,” said Sheriff Cox. “Every second counts in an emergency, and by equipping our deputies with advanced medical responder skills, we’re making sure help is already there when it’s needed most. Our office and the County Commission committed the necessary resources to make this program a reality.”

Sheriff Cox praised his close partnership with Mayor Foster, who knows first hand the importance of rapid response of medically trained people and oversees Cumberland County EMS. “Mayor Foster and I worked seamlessly to advance this public safety initiative. While CCEMS provides excellent care, their response begins only after a 911 call is received. Our deputies are already patrolling throughout the community, and with EMR certification, they can offer immediate life‑saving assistance when emergencies arise. Since Cumberland County is Tennessee’s fourth-largest county and #1 in the state of senior population, this program is a tremendous step forward for public safety.”

The twelve deputies underwent rigorous instruction and hands-on training in emergency medical response, culminating in their certification as Emergency Medical Responders. The new capability ensures that CCSO deputies are prepared not only to enforce the law but also to act as frontline medical responders. In these high-stakes situations—such as severe trauma, cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, uncontrolled bleeding or other life threatening conditions, every second counts. Deputy EMRs are trained to begin care, conduct triage, and stabilize patients until CCEMS paramedics arrive.

Each EMR-certified deputy is equipped with:

Sheriff Cox emphasized, “None of the equipment was purchased with taxpayer dollars. Funding came from alternative sources, ensuring the program’s fiscal responsibility.” Additionally, each EMR-certified deputy will receive a $2-per-hour pay premium in recognition of their specialized training and duties.

Mayor Foster added, “Having EMR-trained deputies already on patrol means critical care can begin immediately before CCEMS arrives. This proactive approach can make all the difference.”

Sheriff Cox noted that the initiative reflects a broader vision of community-centered law enforcement. “Our mission has always been to protect and serve,” he said. “Now, with these enhanced skills, our deputies can protect lives in a way we’ve never been able to before.”

“Thanks to the collaborative effort between my office, Mayor Foster, and the County Commission, there is no doubt the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office EMR program will save lives,” Sheriff Cox affirmed.