Lt. Colton Harden Named CrimeStoppers Officer of the Year for Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department

GADSDEN — The Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department has announced Lt. Colton Harden as the 2025 CrimeStoppers Officer of the Year for the department, recognizing his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to campus safety and community engagement.

Lt. Harden has served with the department for 14 years and is being honored for his consistent dedication to protecting students, faculty, staff, and visitors across Gadsden State campuses. Department officials say his work reflects a strong emphasis on integrity, accountability, and public trust in law enforcement.

In addition to his daily operational responsibilities, Lt. Harden has played an active role in mentoring fellow officers and supporting community outreach efforts. This includes involvement with the department’s “Golden Rule” program, which focuses on fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Officials with Gadsden State Police and Public Safety noted that Lt. Harden’s selection as CrimeStoppers Officer of the Year highlights both his individual contributions and his ongoing commitment to proactive policing and community partnership initiatives.

Chief Jay Freeman praised the recognition, calling it a well-deserved honor and commending Lt. Harden’s dedication to both the department and the broader campus community.

The CrimeStoppers Officer of the Year award recognizes outstanding service and reflects the department’s continued efforts to promote safety, engagement, and trust throughout Gadsden State.