Clanton resident John Shearon was named Calera Police Department’s Police Officer of the Year on Nov. 30.

Shearon was nominated by Calera Police Chief Sean Lemley who said Shearon was “a supervisor’s model of what an officer should be,” as well as self-sacrificing, Lemley said.

“Shearon is always the first to step forward when volunteers are requested, even when others are stepping back,” Lemley said.

Shearon joined the CPD in 2008 after working at the Chilton County Sheriff’s Department for 10 years.

Although Shearon said he was surprised to learn of his nomination and new title of police officer of the year he is honored for the nomination.

“I am involved in law enforcement because I get to help people,” Shearon said. “That is the most enjoyable part for me.”

Shearon was selected out of 22 officers for the title and remained humble of his acceptance.

“I don’t think I have done anything noteworthy to be selected but I am definitely appreciative,” Shearon said.

This is the fourth time Shearon has received the officer of the year title after receiving it twice in the sheriff’s reserve program and once with the sheriff’s department.

“As a member of law enforcement there are a lot of days you only deal with the criminal side of things,” Shearon said. “The main reward though is knowing at the end of the day I have helped someone and that is a good feeling.”

 

Shelby County Reporter staff writer Christine Boatwright contributed to this story.