Jefferson County, Arkansas – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) has announced that Deputy Sheriff Christopher “CJ” Blunt will soon return to active duty after completing his U.S. Army Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia. Deputy Blunt’s return marks the end of a period of active military service with the Arkansas Army National Guard and the beginning of his continued commitment to protecting and serving the citizens of Jefferson County.
Deputy Blunt, who joined the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office on March 16, 2024, was called to military duty on June 22, 2025, as a Second Lieutenant assigned to Company B of the 39th Brigade Support Battalion. During his activation, he successfully completed BOLC, an intensive training program designed to transform newly commissioned officers into capable and confident leaders. The course includes several phases, focusing on leadership, tactical decision-making, and the specialized duties required for officers to succeed in their military branch.
“This is a proud moment for our agency and a testament to Deputy Blunt’s character and commitment,” said Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. “Deputy Blunt embodies the best of public service. He chose to protect and serve at home while answering our nation’s call to duty, and he has done so with excellence. We look forward to welcoming him back to the JCSO family and to the citizens of Jefferson County he serves.”
After completing his training, Deputy Blunt will resume his duties with the Sheriff’s Office on Monday, October 20, 2025. His return is eagerly anticipated by both his colleagues and the community he serves, as he brings with him a wealth of leadership experience and a deepened sense of service shaped by his military training.
BOLC is known for its rigorous curriculum and demanding standards. The program equips officers with the skills needed to lead troops effectively in both peacetime and combat situations. The second phase of the course, which focuses on branch-specific responsibilities, ensures officers are fully prepared to manage personnel, equipment, and operations under challenging circumstances. For Deputy Blunt, this achievement represents not only a personal milestone but also a professional advancement that strengthens his role within JCSO.
Lieutenant Christopher Grider, Blunt’s supervisor, shared his pride in the deputy’s accomplishment. “This is a huge milestone for Deputy Blunt’s military career,” he said, emphasizing that such dedication to dual service reflects Blunt’s integrity and discipline.
Deputy Blunt has served honorably in the Arkansas National Guard for seven years, balancing his military responsibilities with his commitment to law enforcement. His record of service reflects a lifelong dedication to leadership and community involvement. A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration in May 2024, just before joining the Sheriff’s Office. Beyond his professional life, he remains active in his community as a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, and Highland Ministries.
Outside of work, Deputy Blunt is known for his calm demeanor and his love for the outdoors. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and reading, as well as detailing vehicles—a hobby that friends and colleagues say mirrors his attention to detail and pride in his work.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office expressed its gratitude not only to Deputy Blunt but also to his family and the Arkansas Army National Guard for their continued service and support. The agency emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by employees who balance military and civilian duties, noting that such individuals bring unique strengths and leadership qualities to public service.
Through his dual roles as a law enforcement officer and military leader, Deputy Blunt represents the spirit of dedication that Sheriff Woods says is central to the department’s mission. His successful completion of BOLC is seen not only as a personal triumph but also as a reflection of the values that guide the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office—service, integrity, and excellence.
As he prepares to return to his post, Deputy Blunt will resume his work with renewed focus and experience. His journey serves as a reminder of the close connection between military service and public safety, where leadership, discipline, and teamwork play a vital role in protecting communities.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office will officially welcome Deputy Blunt back to duty on October 20, marking the next chapter in a promising career that bridges both the armed forces and local law enforcement. His story stands as an inspiring example of how service, whether in uniform or behind the badge, continues to strengthen the Jefferson County community.
