Sheriff’s Office react to deputies being turned away from prom security job

They were hired to provide security for a prom event

UPDATE: We asked the Hamilton County School System if they had any further comment on the Prom situation.  Here is part of their reply:

School district leadership was notified of the situation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. The event took place as planned. Students were supervised during the event by school administrators and personnel.

_________

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – The Chief Deputy and candidate for Sheriff, Austin Garrett, is disappointed that some of his officers were turned away from a security gig because of their weapons.

The Office says that two SROs were hired by the school system and East Hamilton High to provide security for their prom on Friday night.

It was held at The Signal on Chestnut Street.

But the HCSO says the off-duty officers were asked to leave by the staff because of their firearms.

They were in full uniform and gear as sheriff’s deputies at the time.

They did leave, but they notified their supervisors and school administration.

“Our School Resource Deputies’ primary function is the safety of our community’s children. Although it is a private business’s decision to not allow firearms on their premises, it is sad and disappointing that uniformed HCSO deputies were denied entry and not able to fulfill their duty, ensuring the safety and security of this event while our children celebrated their prom,” stated Chief Deputy Austin Garrett.