
Throughout Virginia’s history, Black law enforcement officers have broken barriers, led with integrity, and paved the way for future generations. From the swearing-in of Robert “RD” Davis Ruffin as Virginia’s first Black Sheriff in 1874 to modern milestones, these leaders have shaped the profession with resilience, dedication, and a commitment to justice.
As we observe Black History Month, the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association is proud to highlight just some of the many achievements of Black law enforcement professionals in Virginia. Their service and leadership continue to inspire progress and strengthen the future of public safety across the Commonwealth.
Timeline of Black Achievements in Virginia’s Law Enforcement
- 1874 – Robert “RD” Davis Ruffin was sworn in as the first Black Sheriff in Virginia in Alexandria (now Arlington) County.
- 1879 – Stephen Bates, born enslaved at Shirley Plantation in Charles City County, Virginia, gained his freedom during the Civil War. In 1879, he became the Sheriff of Vergennes, Vermont—the earliest known Black Sheriff in the North. A state historical marker was dedicated to Bates in Charles City County in 2024.
- 1969 – Lillie B. Knight was hired as a guard for the Newport News jail, a few months before Virginia ended racial segregation in jails. She rose through the ranks to become Chief Corrections Officer and was officially deputized by the sheriff’s department in 1976, becoming the agency’s first Black Deputy Sheriff. Knight was known for her decency and compassion, treating those she served with respect.
- 2004 – Glendell Hill was elected Sheriff of Prince William County, becoming the county’s first Black Sheriff. His election represented a significant milestone in the county’s history.
- 2005 – Vanessa R. Crawford was elected as Petersburg’s first female Sheriff. She later became:
- The only Black female Sheriff in the United States from 2014 to 2017.
- The first Black female elected President of the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association.
- In 2022, she was named National Sheriff of the Year, the first Black female to receive the honor.
- 2022 – Deatria Muse became Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office’s first Black female Captain.
- 2024 – David D. Miles was sworn in as the first Black Sheriff of Suffolk.
- 2024 – Josanna Bryson became the first African American female Officer at the Patrick County Sheriff’s Office. Her appointment was a historic first for the department, reflecting ongoing progress in law enforcement diversity.
