On Tuesday, June 24, sheriffs and deputies from across the Commonwealth gathered in Richmond for a special moment of unity and inspiration: the honorary swearing-in of 13-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a courageous young man battling brain and spine cancer whose dream is to serve in law enforcement.
Governor Glenn Youngkin and Attorney General Jason Miyares joined law enforcement leaders from across Virginia in honoring DJ’s dream at the event, held at the Office of the Attorney General. Organized by Frederick County Sheriff Lenny Millholland and supported by the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association (VSA), the ceremony marked the first statewide swearing-in of DJ in Virginia and drew agency leaders from across the state.
DJ and his father, Theodis, first captured national attention when they attended the Presidential Address to a Joint Session of Congress in Washington, D.C., on March 4. That evening, DJ was sworn in as an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent while millions watched live.
Since then, DJ has taken on a mission to be sworn in by as many law enforcement agencies as possible. He has now been welcomed into the ranks of more than 3,000 departments nationwide – a journey marked by hope, resilience, and the powerful bond between communities and the officers who serve them.
“After being sworn in at over 3,000 different law enforcement departments, I would argue DJ Daniel is the most extraordinary, decorated law enforcement officer America, perhaps, has ever seen,” said Attorney General Jason Miyares.
Sheriff Millholland was first introduced to DJ during the Winchester Apple Blossom Festival this spring and knew he wanted to do something meaningful. “I was immediately moved by DJ’s spirit. He’s not just fighting a personal battle – he’s lifting up everyone around him,” said Sheriff Millholland. “I wanted to bring sheriffs from across Virginia together to show him that we see him, we support him, and we’re with him every step of the way. This was about giving DJ a moment he’ll never forget and reminding ourselves why we do what we do.”
The sheriffs in attendance, many of whom had traveled hours to be there, stood proudly in support of DJ’s dream – offering not only their badges but also their hearts.
“Virginia’s sheriffs and deputies did not hesitate to stand with DJ because that’s who they are,” said John Jones, Executive Director of the VSA. “This gathering was a powerful reminder that law enforcement is about service, compassion, and community. We were proud to support this moment for DJ and honored to help him keep chasing his dream.”
“All of America – and the entire Commonwealth of Virginia – is rooting for you,” Governor Glenn Youngkin told DJ during his remarks.
