The Town of Columbus honored Lt. Bobby Denton last week for his 30 years of service in law enforcement.
Columbus Town Council met Thursday, Sept. 20 and presented Denton with a plaque and resolution and honored him by giving him his badge and firearm.
“He’s the very definition of a community police officer,” said Columbus Police Chief Chris Beddingfield.
Beddingfield reviewed Denton’s career, which began when Denton worked with Doc Wilson before he was old enough to carry a firearm. Denton ended up working for every area municipality, including Landrum and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Denton worked dispatch in Henderson County and in 1980 went to the Tryon Police Department. After Tryon, he was an officer in N. Myrtle Beach, S.C. before coming back to serve as the Landrum police chief. After Landrum, he worked as a detective for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. He then moved to the Saluda Police Department before ending his career working for the Columbus Police Department.
Beddingfield described Denton as dependable, intelligent, approachable, laid-back, easy going and having a lot of wisdom.
“The man is extremely knowledgeable and intelligent,” Beddingfield said. “And a true friend.”
Beddingfield first worked with Denton at the sheriff’s office before Denton joined Columbus. Denton has worked the last six and a half years with Columbus.
“Bobby and I have worked together for a long time and been through thick and thin together,” Beddingfield said. “I think anytime we look at Bobby and what he’s helped us do it’s a better place. Bobby, thank you. I can’t thank you enough.”
Beddingfield received a plaque from town council, as well as his badge and his Glock Model 32 pistol, caliber .357 SIG.