The Floyd County E-911 dispatch team has been recognized for its life-saving efforts in two separate incidents involving missing and endangered elderly residents.

The North Georgia Elder Abuse Task Force Foundation recently awarded the Floyd County E-911 D-Shift team the Joe Gavalis Award of Excellence, citing their coordination, use of advanced tracking technology, and commitment to public safety.

According to the award letter, the first incident occurred in the early morning hours of Jan. 9, 2026, when Dispatcher Selena Martinez received a call reporting a man with dementia missing from South Carolina and possibly wandering in Floyd County. Despite uncertainty about jurisdiction, the D-Shift team immediately began coordinating efforts to locate the man.

Dispatchers used statewide information systems to track the individual. Dispatcher Rees Picon identified key vehicle and tag details, while Lt. Christy Hazelwood located the vehicle in motion in Harris County. Martinez relayed critical updates to other jurisdictions, and Dispatcher Sherika Roberts managed communications within Floyd County to support the ongoing search.

Authorities say the information was ultimately passed to the Columbus Police Department, which located the missing man within just over an hour of Floyd County being notified.

A second incident on March 2, 2026, involved a disoriented elderly woman believed to be driving aimlessly. Operator Jessica Settle dispatched an officer while Martinez and Picon began tracking the woman across multiple counties. Within 45 minutes, the woman was found safely in Bartow County and reunited with her family.

Officials say both cases highlight the importance of teamwork, communication, and modern technology in emergency response. The foundation praised the dispatchers for their professionalism and dedication, noting their actions likely saved lives.

The award was signed by Major Jeff Jones and Chief Dan Flynn of the North Georgia Elder Abuse Task Force Foundation, who commended the team for setting an example in public safety and service.