Union County Deputy Honored by MADD for DUI Enforcement Expertise

Blairsville, Ga. — Union County Sheriff's Office Deputy Steve Bennett received a Golden Shield Honor Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving last week for his work as a certified Drug Recognition Expert.

Bennett was recognized at the 22nd Annual MADD Golden Shield Honor Awards in Macon for completing at least 15 DRE evaluations since earning his certification last April. He received a pin marking the achievement.

Drug Recognition Experts play a key role in DUI cases involving substances other than alcohol, which can be more difficult to detect because they typically produce no odor. DREs undergo extensive training to identify signs of impairment from various drug categories and provide expert testimony in court.

"Having one of less than 500 DREs in the State of Georgia working for your Sheriff's Office is a huge asset for our community," the Union County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.

The sheriff's office congratulated Bennett on his recognition.

The awards highlight law enforcement officers and others who demonstrate outstanding efforts to combat impaired driving.