Dyer County Sheriff’s Office announces chief investigator awarded ‘Case of the Year’ by WTCIA

DYER COUNTY, TN – The Dyer County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that Chief Investigator Terry McCreight has been awarded the prestigious “Case of the Year Award” by the West Tennessee Criminal Investigators Association for his exceptional work in the investigation of the tragic murder of Daronte Herbert.

The award recognizes Chief Investigator McCreight’s relentless pursuit of justice following the heinous crime that took place in April 2018, where 18-year-old Daronte Herbert was lured to a remote location and murdered. Through his dedication, persistence, leadership, and meticulous investigative efforts, McCreight played a pivotal role in ensuring that those responsible for this senseless act were brought to justice.

On November 6, 2025, a Dyer County jury delivered a guilty verdict against Deshawn “Money” Gorman and Demauzay “Zay” Jackson, convicting them of First Degree Murder. Both defendants received life sentences from Dyer County Circuit Court Judge Mark Hayes, underscoring the commitment of the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney General’s Office to combat violence and support the victims’ families.

Chief Investigator Terry McCreight said, “I am humbled to be considered for this award much less receiving it. We have a great team of investigators at the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office who work tirelessly on behalf of victims of crime. To say I am proud of them is an understatement. I feel so honored today and have zero regrets spending almost 40 years of my life in law enforcement.”

Sheriff Jeff Box commended Chief Investigator McCreight, stating, “This recognition reflects not only Investigator McCreight’s hard work but also the collective commitment of our team to fight against violent crime in our community. Daronte Herbert’s tragic death left a profound impact on our community, and we accept this award in his memory.”

District Attorney General Danny Goodman echoed these sentiments, praising Chief Investigator McCreight’s exemplary service in the investigation. “The dedication and collaboration between law enforcement agencies ensure that we stand together against violence in our community. Chief Investigator McCreight’s work has brought justice to a family in mourning and sends a strong message that such senseless acts will not be tolerated.”

The Dyer County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to serving and protecting our community, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice for victims of crime.

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