Published March 19, 2026
By: MADISON MACARTHUR
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Athens County Sheriff’s Office unveiled a soft interview room this week, dedicated to creating a calm environment for trauma-informed interviews.
“This room reflects our commitment to treating victims with compassion and dignity,” said Sheriff Rodney Smith. “Providing a space where individuals feel safe and respected during difficult conversations helps us better serve our community while conducting thorough and professional investigations.”
The interview room was made possible through Project Beloved: The Molly Jane Mission. Brynne Morris applied for the program through Project Beloved and coordinated the installation of the room after it was approved. The sheriff’s office was selected after one year on the waiting list for the interview room.
The sheriff’s office said that unlike traditional interview rooms, this one has comfortable furnishings and a softer atmosphere, aiming to reduce stress and help victims, children and other participants feel physically and emotionally safe during sensitive conversations.
“We extend our gratitude to the Athens County Commissioners for providing the space, paint, and carpet necessary to make this project possible,” the sheriff’s office said. “We also thank maintenance staff Mark Robinette and Jeff Stull for their assistance in preparing and setting up the room.”
Project Beloved was established in memory of Molly Jane Matheson, who was raped and murdered in 2017 by a serial rapist in Texas. The organization aims to change the conversation about sexual assault and help survivors find their voice. The room also features photography by Megan Getrum, who was a second victim of the same person who killed Matheson. Getrum’s family shares her photographs as part of the initiative.
The Athens County Sheriff’s Office marks the 166th Soft Interview Room established across the nation.
“Most importantly, we extend our sincere thanks to Tracy Matheson, Shey Thompson and Project Beloved for their guidance through the process, generosity, vision and commitment to helping law enforcement agencies serve victims,” the sheriff’s office said. “This room reflects our continued dedication to trauma-informed practices and compassionate service to our community.”