Sequoyah County CCR/SART Honors Retired Sallisaw Detective Sandra “Sandy” Girdner

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 — Family members, friends, advocates, and fellow law enforcement officers gathered last Wednesday to honor the life and legacy of retired Sallisaw Police Department Detective Lt. Sandra “Sandy” Girdner during a memorial plaque presentation recognizing her years of service and dedication to the community.

The Sequoyah County Coordinated Community Response/Sexual Assault Response Team (CCR/SART) presented the memorial plaque, which will be displayed in the lobby of the Sallisaw Police Department in recognition of Girdner’s contributions to law enforcement and her commitment to helping victims and survivors.

Girdner proudly served the residents of Sallisaw and made history as the city’s first full-time female certified law enforcement officer, graduating from the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) in 1996.

Throughout her law enforcement career, Girdner dedicated much of her work to investigating cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Her commitment to seeking justice for victims and holding offenders accountable made a lasting impact on the community she served.

In addition to her investigative work, Girdner helped pave the way for other women pursuing careers in law enforcement, leaving a legacy that extended beyond her own service.

Although Girdner retired for medical reasons, her dedication to helping others did not end with her law enforcement career. She continued working with the Sequoyah County CCR/SART, supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault until her passing.

Those who gathered to remember Girdner reflected on her professional accomplishments, compassion for others, and the lasting relationships she built throughout her life.

One CCR/SART representative shared that she was blessed, along with many others, to call Girdner a friend, adding that the community is better because of her commitment to helping those in need and bringing their abusers to justice.

Organizers also expressed appreciation to everyone who attended the memorial gathering and to the Sallisaw Police Department for recognizing Girdner’s accomplishments by displaying the plaque in the department’s lobby.

Girdner is remembered not only for breaking barriers in law enforcement but also for her dedication to protecting vulnerable members of the community. The people whose lives she touched will continue to remember her legacy of service, advocacy, and compassion.

“Sandy, you were and are still much loved and respected,” organizers shared in remembering their friend and colleague.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

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