Jordan Honored by Peers

Sheriff Rufe Jordan Honored by his Peers





His peers in the Sheriff's Association of Texas named Cray County Sheriff Rufe Jordan as the state's top lawman and gave him the prestigious Tom Tellespen Award at the association's annual convention Tuesday in Amarillo.

The award was presented to Jordan at the state sheriff's annual banquet Tuesday evening at the Amarillo Hilton Inn.

Jordan, 70, is Texas's longest serving county sheriff. Jordan has held the office of Cray County Sheriff for 33 years and has worked in law enforcement about 50 years.

The Pampa sheriff's life and work has been featured in stories in the major state newspapers and Texas Monthly Magazine.

Jordan must be savoring his surprise award. A Pampa deputy said Jordan was supposed to return from the Amarillo convention Tuesday night, but he stayed over after receiving the Tellespen Award.

The Tom Tellespen Award is given each year to the peace officer whose life has been most dedicated to law enforcement. A fellow member of the Sheriff's Association nominates a candidate, and the association's board of directors selects the annual winner.

The statewide sheriff's convention started Monday morning and concluded this afternoon (see story Page 3). Speakers at the convention included Governor Mark White, Texas Attorney General Jim Mattox. Texas Department of Corrections Director W.J. Estelle and State Senator Bill Sarpalius.





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