SALISBURY — Three Rowan County Sheriff’s Office deputies recently received advanced service awards.

Detective Gregory Bacote was awarded the Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate by the North Carolina Sheriff’s Education, Training and Standards Commission, which he received Sept. 15.

The certificate is earned based on total of years of service, training and education and is the highest certification earned by a North Carolina law enforcement officer.

Bacote also received an Advanced Service Award from the commission.

Lt. Audrey Mackey was also awarded an Advanced Service Award from the commission on Sept. 15.

The Advanced Service Award recognizes sheriff’s office employees for loyal and competent service. Mackey was approved for the award for having more than 20 years of criminal justice service. Bacote was approved for having more than 12 years of criminal justice service.

Deputy Justan Mounts was awarded the Intermediate Law Enforcement Certificate by the commission, which he received Sept. 15. The certificate is based on years of service and training.