Partnerships pay off-The Danville Police Department recently donated thirty M-26 Tasers to the Danville Sheriff’s Office. DPD Sergeant Erica Tally, a Master Trainer through Taser International, certified two instructors within the Sheriff’s Office. Sgt. Sharon Wilson and Deputy Jonathan Taylor were certified and trained the Special Response Team who are now carrying the less lethal weapons in the jail and courts. Plans are being made to expand the implementation of the Taser throughout the Sheriff’s Office. Special thanks to Danville Police Chief Philip Broadfoot for his generosity in donating the Tasers.
Danville area law enforcement partners teamed up again for the 2nd annual “Y.A.G.” which featured officers and staff members from the Danville Sheriff’s Office, Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Danville Police Department, Danville Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and Pittsylvania County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The law enforcement collaborative partnered with the Boys and Girls Club to build positive relationships with youth in the area in the form of athletic competition. Area youth ages 5-17 competed in three athletic events; basketball free throw contest, jump rope for time, and football accuracy throw. The top three in each age and gender category were awarded high quality medals by uniformed members of law enforcement agencies. The athletic events were preceded by a “Good Citizen’s Pledge” which held the participants accountable to “…follow the rules of my household, my school, and society. I will be committed to being a good citizen by obeying the law, respecting authority, contributing to my community, honoring my country, doing what is right and serving others before myself.” All participants received a copy of their signed pledge on quality grade paper, and a T-shirt. A hot dog meal was served following the event. Despite the morning downpour, and moving some of the events inside, the Y.A.G. pulled in 60+ participants.
The event was made possible and cost free to participants thanks to local sponsors: Danville Regional Medical Center, The Trophy and Sign Center, Aramark, DJ Larry Stamps and Home Depot.
As Danville Sheriff, I would like to extend a special thanks to Pittsylvania County Sheriff Mike Taylor, Danville Police Chief Philip Broadfoot, Danville Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Newman, Pittsylvania County Commonwealth’s Attorney David Grimes, their respective officers and staff members. Also, special thanks to D.S.O. Major Matt Wyatt who coordinated the event.