Archives
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Virginia Sheriffs’ Association Presents 2026 Deputy Sheriff of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, and Valor Awards
The Virginia Sheriffs’ Association (VSA) presented the 2026 Deputy Sheriff of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, and Valor Awards at the VSA Annual Conference on September 15, 2026, at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront Marriott. “Today, we recognize individuals whose actions have brought great credit to their agencies and to the law enforcement profession,” said…
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Governor Abigail Spanberger Swears in 2026-2027 Virginia Sheriffs’ Association Officers
During the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association’s (VSA) Annual Meeting held on September 16, 2026, Governor Abigail Spanberger officiated the swearing-in ceremony for VSA’s newly elected officers. The event marked the beginning of a new term for VSA leadership, with Smyth County Sheriff B. C. “Chip” Shuler assuming the position of President. “It is an extraordinary honor…
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VSA Mourns the Passing of Martinsville City Sheriff Steve Draper
The Virginia Sheriffs’ Association (VSA) joins the Martinsville community and Virginia’s law enforcement family in mourning the passing of City of Martinsville Sheriff Steve M. Draper. Sheriff Draper passed away Saturday, August 29, following a terminal pulmonary illness. At the time of his passing, Sheriff Draper was Virginia’s senior sheriff, having served longer than any…
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National Night Out 2026: Virginia Sheriffs Connect with Communities Across the Commonwealth
Across Virginia, sheriffs’ offices joined neighbors and community partners for National Night Out, coming together at events across the Commonwealth to strengthen relationships and connect with the communities they serve. From large countywide celebrations to smaller neighborhood gatherings, deputies, staff and residents gathered for cookouts, games, demonstrations and family activities. Severe weather and flooding affected…
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VSA Mourns Line-of-Duty Death of Appomattox County Deputy Burlie W. Duvall III
The Virginia Sheriffs’ Association (VSA) joins the Appomattox County Sheriff’s Office in mourning the line-of-duty death of Deputy Burlie W. Duvall III, who was killed on Aug. 6 while assisting at the scene of a motor vehicle accident. Deputy Duvall dedicated his life to protecting his community and made the ultimate sacrifice in service to…
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Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Relay for Life Team is Making a Difference
The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Relay for Life Team recently presented a $15,000 check to the American Cancer Society/Relay for Life South Hampton Roads. This donation was possible thanks to the Relay for Life Team’s fun and creative fundraisers they host throughout the year, including bake sales and bowling tournaments, selling t-shirts and sweatshirts, and spearheading…
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King George County Sheriff Chris Giles Announces Retirement After 36 Years of Service
King George County Sheriff Chris Giles has announced that he will retire at the end of 2026 after 36 years in law enforcement. Sheriff Giles made the announcement during a recent King George County Board of Supervisors meeting. Although his current term runs through Dec. 31, 2027, he has petitioned the King George Circuit Court…
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Undersheriff Celebrates 40 Years with the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office
On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Colonel Mike O’Toole celebrated his 40th Anniversary with the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office. Throughout his storied career, Colonel O’Toole has held many positions including Community Corrections Director and Chief of Staff. While in these roles he started the FIRST Re-entry Program for VADOC and NCJ, led the way for directing and evolving…
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Youth Explorers Program Builds Future Leaders
In 2025, the Mathews County Sheriff’s Office was awarded funding under Governor Youngkin’s grant initiative to launch their first-ever Youth Explorers’ Program for teenagers between the ages of 13-18 years of age. Once the sheriff’s office was approved for funding, Sheriff April Edwards began creating an Explorers’ program that would facilitate interest in the law enforcement profession, develop rapport with our…
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Roanoke Deputies Complete 81st Jailor Class
The Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office recently recognized five deputies who graduated from the 81st Entry-Level Jailor Class at the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy on June 10, 2026. Graduates included Deputy Spencer, Deputy Pham, Deputy Goodman, Deputy Law and Deputy Raouf. “I’m thankful for the partnership that we have with the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy,” said…
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Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office holds 62nd Basic Academy Class Graduation
The Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office (VBSO) held its 62nd Basic Academy Class (BAC) graduation on June 25, 2026, recognizing 18 deputy recruits’ successful completion of training. The ceremony included presentation of the inaugural Ken Stolle Innovator Award. The graduating class included recruits from all walks of life—one-third (six total) are military veterans who served in…
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The Honorable Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford Appointed to DJJ Board
The Petersburg Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford has been appointed by Governor Abigail Spanberger to serve on the Virginia Board of Juvenile Justice. The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice board provides oversight and guidance for juvenile justice programs and services throughout the Commonwealth. The Board plays a critical role…