by Paul Manke
Pulaski Exchange Club
A Giles County Sheriff’s Deputy who teaches self defense classes was recognized with the Law Enforcement Appreciation Officer of the Year Award by the Pulaski Exchange Club.
“Be aware of your surroundings,” Jarred Hasting said was his advice to those, in his classes.
Sgt. Hasting, a Giles County native, was nominated for the award by Sheriff Kyle Helton.
“Jared has risen to the rank of Sergeant and regularly volunteers his time to attend training on his own that benefits the community and the sheriff’s department,” Helton wrote in a letter of nomination,
“He is an instructor in defensive tactics and uses his training and teaching experience to conduct a Women’s Self Defense Class for those in the community.”
A Giles County native, he is the son of Larry and Cecilia Hasting.
Hasting joined the Giles County Sheriff's Department in 2010, and put himself through the Basic Police School at Walters State Community College in Morristown, Tenn., from 2010-2012.
He has a background in mixed martial arts, muay Thai and Jiu-jitsu.
A patrol deputy since 2010, a member of the SWAT (Special Weapons and Assault Tactics) since 2011 and a sergeant since 2016.
When he joined the sheriff’s department, Hasting became active in teaching the department’s self defense classes to patrol deputies and to members of the jail staff.
Later, he started teaching the women’s classes.
At the Giles County Sheriff’s department, Hasting works as a patrol sergeant, working with deputies on administrative matters.
Prior to joining the sheriff’s department, Hasting worked as a technician with Nissan North America, Decherd.
With Hasting when he received the award were his wife Jessica and step son Mason.
The family lives in the Ardmore Elkton area.
“Jarred is an example to members of the community and the Sheriff's Department,” Helton wrote.
“He is dependable, consistent, and honest. Those qualities become more valuable each day, and harder to find.“