Calls for Service Rise in Rutherford County, Records show

Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office reported a significant uptick in law enforcement activity in March, according to figures released by Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg.

The monthly report, shared publicly on the agency’s social media, shows deputies responded to 3,757 calls for service in March 2026 — a notable increase from 3,226 calls in February and 3,133 in January.

The report lists 291 incident reports and 157 arrests for the month, both higher than February totals of 230 reports and 115 arrests. December 2025 saw a higher arrest count at 169, but with fewer calls for service overall.

Jail population also rose. The average number of inmates in March reached 190, including 153 males and 37 females. That marks an increase from February’s 169 inmates and January’s 175.

Firearm permit activity remained steady. The sheriff’s office issued 168 concealed carry permits in March, including 44 renewals, compared with 118 total permits issued in February.

Narcotics seizures varied widely month to month, but March figures show a large quantity of marijuana recovered — 18,278.8 grams — along with 512 grams of methamphetamine, 90.7 grams of fentanyl and heroin combined, 1 gram of cocaine, and nine pills. Deputies also seized 22 firearms.

By comparison, February reports grouped most drug totals under “all other narcotics,” listing 2,860.6 grams seized, along with 118 pills and $1,531 in cash. January totals included 292.3 grams of narcotics, 56.5 pills and $507 in seized money.

Civil and criminal process service remained a steady component of workload. Deputies served 619 papers in March, including 238 criminal and 381 civil documents. That total exceeds February’s 592 papers served and January’s 499.

The sheriff’s office noted that all figures are subject to revision.

“Please note it may become necessary to revise activity counts as new information becomes available and is processed,” the report states.

The six-month comparison included in the release shows fluctuating trends in calls for service and enforcement activity, with March marking one of the highest months for overall calls during the period reviewed.

Officials encourage the public to review the full report for additional context and historical comparisons.