Deputies receive award

The St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department has announced its deputies of the year.
Road deputy Jody Hughes and corrections deputy Andy Steinbarger were recipients of the award, announced by Sheriff Brad Balk.
For Hughes, the recognition marks the second consecutive year he has won the honor. Hughes said he was humbled and honored, especially since he expected the award to go to someone else.
Each deputy received off-duty equipment donated by St. Joseph County Commissioner Don Eaton and Lakeland Paper owner Don Fox.
Balk said he not only appreciates having a team of deputies with high integrity, but also having the public support from people such as Eaton and Fox.