May 12th marked the 276th Anniversary of the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office. In 1749, Governor Gooch appointed John Archer as the first Sheriff of Chesterfield County. The responsibilities of the Sheriff were described as “bringing to court persons who broke the peace or were suspected of breaking the law.” These gentlemen were also tasked with providing security for the judges, the courthouse, and the jail.
Fast forward to today, the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office continues to provide these services—and much more—to the citizens of Chesterfield, with our four core values embedded in our duty to serve with pride, professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Happy 276th Birthday to the CSO!
As we reflect on the Office’s long-standing history, we also take time to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. On May 8th, the Chesterfield Sheriff’s Office held a Wreath Laying Ceremony in remembrance of our fallen law enforcement officers. Our monument is a place where Sheriff’s Office staff—sworn, non-sworn, retirees, and family—can come to remember those who lost their lives in the line of duty:
- Sheriff Benjamin Branch; End of Watch: April 29, 1786
- Deputy Archer Thomas Belcher; End of Watch: February 17, 1912
- Chief Deputy Gilliam Herbert Cogbill; End of Watch: September 24, 1965
In addition to honoring the past, we also celebrate progress and leadership within our ranks. On a recent afternoon, the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office held a promotion ceremony to recognize the tireless efforts of two Deputies. Master Deputy Joseph Lewis was promoted to Sergeant, and Staff Sergeant Carl Peterson was promoted to Lieutenant. The ceremony included the awarding of their promotional certificates and the pinning of their new insignias by family members.
We congratulate Sergeant Lewis and Lieutenant Peterson for their dedication to the Sheriff’s Office and wish them well in their new assignments.
