Warrenton gets new top cop
February 8, 2012 | Virginia News
It’s official; acting Warrenton Police Chief Lou Battle is now the town’s top cop.
Town Manager Ken McLawhon announced the move Wednesday morning.
Battle was originally hired as the deputy chief of police in February 2007. He has been acting chief since his predecessor, Chief Connie Novak, retired last year.
“I am grateful for the opportunity and appreciate the faith the council has put in me,” Battle said. “I will continue to work hard for the community.”
Battle, who had been living in Augusta County, will now move closer to Fauquier to shorten his commute. Before coming to Warrenton, he spent 26 years as a member of the Miami Dade Police Department where he retired as a senior bureau commander in charge of tactical operations.
Battle has two master’s degrees. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy, the Southern Police Institute’s Command Officers Development Course and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police.
He is an adjunct professor and an expert witness on police operations, policies and procedures.
“He is well suited to continue the tradition of service and excellence which embodies the Warrenton Police Department,” McLawhon said.
Supreme Court: Warrant Needed For GPS Tracking
January 24, 2012 | National News
The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that police must have a search warrant to place a GPS tracker on a suspect's vehicle. It's a key ruling carving out personal privacy space in the high-tech era. While the ruling was unanimous, the justices split three ways as to whether the decision went far enough.
Copyright © 2012 National Public Radio®. For personal, noncommercial use only. See Terms of Use. For other uses, prior permission required.
DAVID GREENE, HOST:
The U.S. Supreme Court is stepping - albeit gingerly - into the question of privacy in the information age. The court has ruled that police have to obtain a court-authorized warrant before they place a GPS device on a suspect's car. While the outcome was unanimous, the justices split three ways as to whether that decision went far enough. We'll have two reports, beginning with NPR's legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg.
NINA TOTENBERG, BYLINE: The court's unanimous ruling reversed the conviction of a Washington, D.C. nightclub owner sentenced to life in prison for drug trafficking. The justices agreed that his conviction could not stand because the FBI had placed a GPS tracking device on his jeep, and without a warrant, had tracked his every move for 28 days, using the resulting evidence to convict him.
But there the agreement stopped, with the justices divided on the legal rationale, and liberals and conservatives split in unusual ways. The lead opinion, written by Justice Antonin Scalia, said that because the tracking device was physically placed on the car, at a minimum, it was a search within the original meaning of the Constitution's ban on searches of property without a warrant.
Left unresolved were major issues involving cell phones, e-mails, tracking by remote device, even long-term tracking by aerial surveillance. Does the government need a warrant to get access to that sort of information, where there's been no physical intrusion on property? George Washington University professor Orrin Kerr says such questions remain unresolved.
Governor McDonnell Announces Public Safety Agenda for 2012 Session
January 19, 2012 | Virginia News
Includes Initiatives to Toughen Penalties for Repeat Drug Dealers, Better Protect Victims of Crime, and Strengthen the Commonwealth for Future Public Safety Needs
RICHMOND – Building on the public safety proposals outlined in his State of the Commonwealth address last week, Governor Bob McDonnell today announced his public safety agenda for the 2012 General Assembly session at an afternoon press conference on Capitol Square. He was joined by Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, members of the General Assembly and public safety officials. Highlights of the agenda include legislation to: provide tough mandatory minimum sentences for repeat drug dealers, and life sentences for sex offenders who prey on children; further protect victims of crime; streamline procedures for Virginia's asset forfeiture laws; and, strengthen the response to emergencies and ensure maximum protection for victims.
The governor also introduced budget proposals to provide law enforcement with the tools they need to keep our streets safe. He has continued to support "599" funding for local law enforcement, restored financial support for sheriffs, and provided new resources for 40 vacant positions in the Virginia State Police. In addition, the governor has included budget language so that localities have a mechanism for obtaining authorization for new drug courts, at their expense, as long as they meet certain requirements and provide data necessary to evaluate their success.
Speaking about his public safety agenda, Governor McDonnell remarked, "Public safety is the foremost priority of government. It is paramount that we continue to work to ensure that we have safe streets and communities so that our children are growing and learning in a safe environment; businesses are able to thrive and expand; and, families continue to choose to make Virginia their home. As I said last week in my State of the Commonwealth address, a more secure society is a more prosperous society. This starts with ensuring that those who violate our laws, and endanger and target our young people, are kept off the streets. That's why I am proposing tough mandatory minimum sentences for repeat drug dealers and life sentences for sex offenders who prey on children. We are also working to end the cycle of drug addiction by providing localities with a mechanism for obtaining authorization for new drug courts. Additionally, I am proposing legislation to improve and strengthen laws to protect victims of crime. This includes increasing punishment for anyone who financially exploits elderly or incapacitated adults, and raising the penalty for assault and battery of a family or household member from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 6 felony when the offense is through strangulation. Building on our ongoing prisoner re-entry efforts, we are advancing legislation that establishes a new pilot program called 'SURE' for non-violent offenders who violate conditions of their probation. This program provides an alternative to prison for felony non-violent offenders who violate conditions of probation. The program's goal is to reduce the number and frequency of probation violations and free up judges and probation and parole officers to deal with more serious offenders."
Governor McDonnell continued, "This year's public safety agenda also aims to better prepare us for future emergencies. Last year, Virginia faced significant natural disasters. Following the August earthquake, too many homeowners were unknowingly left without insurance coverage for earthquakes. We are advancing legislation that will now provide notice regarding earthquake exclusions on insurance to ensure that homeowners and businesses are aware of additional coverage requirements. Last year also tested the effectiveness of our emergency response plans. I am pleased with the coordination between Virginia's Department of Emergency Management and our localities. But these disasters also proved that we can never be too prepared. That is why we are advancing legislation that will better coordinate emergency response by requiring that public institutions of higher education submit in writing that required annual reviews and functional exercises have been conducted. Finally, we are ensuring that public safety needs are funded. In my budget we have maintained critical '599' funding, restored funding to our sheriff's offices and included funding for vacant positions within Virginia State Police. Public safety is a core function of government and, this session, we are advancing an agenda that continues to strengthen our criminal justice system, provides resources to our public safety officials and further protects victims. These proposals will go far to help us achieve our goal of making the Commonwealth a safer place in which to live, work and raise a family."
Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli added, "Public safety continues to be one of my paramount priorities as attorney general. Through legislation addressing Medicaid fraud and elder abuse, human trafficking, gang crimes, compensation for families of officers killed in the line of duty and other public safety initiatives, I am proud to present a legislative package that will make Virginia a safer place to live, work and raise our families. I am looking forward to working with the legislature and the governor once again to find ways to better protect our citizens and equip my staff and law enforcement with the tools necessary to effectively fight crime in Virginia."
Delegate Dave Albo, chairman of the House Courts of Justice Committee, noted, "I want to commend Governor McDonnell for again making public safety a priority both through legislation and budget initiatives. Through this agenda I will be advancing key legislation to crack down on drunk driving by establishing mandatory minimum sentences for involuntary manslaughter and aggravated involuntary manslaughter. On average, drunk drivers kill one person a day. Drunk driving is a serious crime and will not be tolerated. We have a duty as lawmakers to protect all Virginians, and this year's public safety agenda will go far to keep offenders off our streets and keep our children, neighborhoods and homes safe."
Senate Majority Leader Thomas K. Norment, Jr., chairman of the Senate Courts of Justice Committee, stated, "Governor McDonnell's public safety legislative agenda sets out specific goals designed to ensure that all Virginians are safe in their communities. This agenda includes protection for children, the elderly and victims of domestic abuse. It will imprison drug dealers for a longer period of time, and those who prey on our children will be sent to prison for life. All of these things cannot happen without the great work of local and state law enforcement officials. We have to make sure they have the tools necessary to enforce the laws we pass as they risk their lives every day in service to the citizens of the Commonwealth."
Governor McDonnell's 2012 Public Safety Agenda:
Toughen Penalties for Repeat Drug Dealers, Violent Sex Offenders and Gang Members
HB968 (R. Bell)/ SB159 (Obenshain) – Toughen Penalties for Repeat Drug Dealers
- Increases the penalty for repeat drug dealers. Second-time offenders will face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and third-time or subsequent offenders will face a more significant mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison.
HB973 (R. Bell)/ SB436 (Obenshain) – Toughen Penalties for Violent Sex Offenders
- Imposes a mandatory minimum life sentence for rape, forcible sodomy, and object sexual penetration of a child under the age of 13.
HB624 (Albo)/ SB412 (Norment) – Require Registration for Juvenile Sex Offenders
- Requires juveniles over the age of 13 who are adjudicated delinquent for forcible rape, forcible sodomy, or object sexual penetration to register with the Sex Offender and Crime Against Minor Registry. Changes will make Virginia compliant with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
HB1126 (R. Bell)/ SB111 (Howell) – Establishes New Sentencing Program for Nonviolent Offenders Who Violate Probation
- Establishes a new sentencing program for nonviolent felony offenders who violate conditions of their probation.
HB49 (Albo)/ SB182 (Stuart) – Toughen Penalties for Involuntary Manslaughter Caused by Driving Under the Influence
- Establishes a one year mandatory minimum for involuntary manslaughter resulting from a DUI and a mandatory minimum of five years for aggravated involuntary manslaughter resulting from a DUI.
HB751 (Cline)/ SB345 (McDougle) – Combat Gang Recruitment Through Toughening Penalties for Utilizing Electronic Mediums
- Provides that any person who, by telephone or by any electronically transmitted communication producing a visual or electronic message (phone, text, email or social networking site), solicits, invites, recruits, encourages, or otherwise causes or attempts to cause another to actively participate in or become a member of what he knows to be a criminal street gang is guilty of a class 5 felony.
HB718 (Kilgore)/ SB419 (Stanley) – Toughen Penalties for Juvenile Offenders Who Commit Violent Crimes
- Allows prosecutors the discretion to have a juvenile who is 14 years of age or older charged with violations of certain gang offenses and repeat violations of certain drug offenses to be transferred to the circuit court for trial as an adult. The bill also provides that juveniles charged with an offense defined as an act of violence, if previously adjudicated delinquent of an act of violence, are automatically transferred to the circuit court for trial as an adult.
Improve Laws to Further Protect Victims of Crime
HB987 ( Loupassi)/ SB431 (Stuart) – Toughen Penalties for the Financial Exploitation of Elderly or Incapacitated Adults
- Provides that it unlawful to knowingly, by deception, intimidation, undue influence, coercion, harassment, duress, or misrepresentation, use, obtain, convert, or take control of an elderly or vulnerable adult's property or financial resources with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the adult of the use, benefit, or possession of the property or financial resources. The bill allows forfeiture of personal property used in connection with the crime.
HB752 (Cline)/ SB459 (Herring) – Protect Victims of Domestic Violence by Increasing the Penalty for Strangulation
- Raises the penalty for assault and battery of a family or household member from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 6 felony when the assault and battery is accomplished by strangling the victim. The bill also raises from a class 6 to a class 5 felony the penalty for assault and battery of a family or household member when the perpetrator has been convicted of certain prior offenses and commits the offense by strangulation.
HB1033 (McClellan)/ SB445 (Vogel) – Strengthen Enforcement of Protective Order through the Expedited Entry into the Virginia Criminal Information Network
- Provides a circuit court jurisdiction to hear petitions to modify, dissolve, or extend a permanent protective order if the circuit court issued the order. The bill requires a court, when a protective order is issued, to enter and automatically transfer identifying information to the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) system.
HB916 (Minchew)/ SB486 (Newman) – Protect Victims by Increasing the Penalty of Harassment Utilizing Social Networking Sites
- Makes it a class 1 misdemeanor for a prisoner or a person acting on behalf of a prisoner to use a computer, computer network, or social networking site to harass, intimidate, or threaten a crime victim.
HB504 (Dance)/ SB271 (Marsh) – Strengthen the Commonwealth's Anti-Bullying Efforts
- Requires the Virginia Center for School Safety to provide evidence-based anti-bullying training to public school personnel.
Ensure Proper and Streamlined Procedures for Virginia's Asset Forfeiture Laws
HB212 and HB384 (Miller)/ SB325 and SB326 (Carrico) – Ensuring Proper and Streamlined Procedures for Virginia's Asset Forfeiture Laws (Senator Carrico and Delegate Miller)
- Legislation seeks to clarify and streamline the Commonwealth's asset forfeiture laws by consolidating the forfeiture provisions found throughout the Code of Virginia into one uniform process.
Strengthen the Commonwealth's Response to Emergencies and Ensuring Maximum Protection for Victims
HB523 (Farrell)/ SB369 (Reeves) – Fire Insurance; Earthquake Coverage Notice
- Requires insurance policies that exclude coverage for earthquake damage to provide a notice that earthquake coverage is excluded and that earthquake insurance may be available for an additional premium.
HB305 (Crockett-Stark)/ SB346 (McDougle) – Strengthen the Commonwealth's Institutions of Higher Education Response to Emergencies
Legislation will increase the coordination by the Department of Emergency Management with the Commonwealth's colleges and universities emergency management plans by requiring institutions to certify in writing to the department that the required annual reviews and functional exercises have been conducted.
Police chiefs discuss terrorism at White House
January 18, 2012 | National News
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration is providing senior state and local police officials with its analysis of homegrown terrorism incidents, including common signs law enforcement can use to identify violent extremists.
The warning signs identified for police include someone joining a group advocating violence, receiving support from a network that plans attacks or seeking out charismatic leaders who encourage violence. The analysis was conducted by the Homeland Security Department, the FBI and the National Counterterrorism Center.
The conference Wednesday at the White House marks the first time this unclassified analysis will be presented to 46 senior federal, state and local law enforcement officials, many of whom are police chiefs and sheriffs. The conference will also include sessions on other programs the federal government has for countering violent extremism and a briefing from a deputy chief of the Los Angeles Police Department about what the city has done on this front.
"Engaging local communities is critical to our nation's effort to counter violent extremism and violent crime, and this meeting brings together many of our partners," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said. Napolitano, Attorney General Eric Holder and the president's counterterrorism adviser, John Brennan, planned to attend the White House conference.
There has been an uptick in attempted attacks by Americans and other legal U.S. residents in the past few years, prompting the Obama administration to place a priority on finding ways to stop this type of violence. The administration rolled out a thin strategy last year that put local communities — not Washington — in charge of countering violent extremism in the U.S. That strategy was short on details and did not focus on threats from Islamic extremists.
The White House has encouraged law enforcement to reach out to Muslim communities to build relationships, insisting that these communities are partners in the fight against terrorism. At the same time, the government is trying to develop ways to help local law enforcement detect behavior that could indicate someone is plotting a violent attack. The challenge has been to provide behavioral indicators that indicate the potential for violence rather than religious beliefs or other constitutionally-protected rights.
Analysts from the FBI, Homeland Security Department and National Counterterrorism Center reviewed 62 cases of homegrown violent extremists and found basic similarities. The cases included violent extremists who adhered to a mix of ideologies, including people who ascribed to white supremacist beliefs and people inspired by a violent interpretation of Islam. The analysis is not a psychological profile of a homegrown terrorist, but instead offers similarities among cases that could help local law enforcement better understand and detect threats.
In the 62 cases reviewed, the subjects increasingly spoke out against the government, blamed the government for perceived problems and did so in a way that caught the attention of other people in their communities, according to the senior counterterrorism official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private White House event. Subjects became active on the Internet to espouse extremist views. In some cases, the subjects purchased weapons, ammunition or explosive materials.
Analysts found that a person's origin, ethnic background and socioeconomic status are not good indicators for potential violent extremist activity, the senior counterterrorism official said.
Later this month, a training program for local law enforcement on countering violent extremism will be tested in Southern California, and the government intends to roll out the training to the rest of the country through 2012. Part of the training will focus on understanding constitutionally protected activities so law enforcement can distinguish between illegal acts and free speech. The official said the FBI academy plans to incorporate this training into its programs as well.
The FBI came under fire last year for some controversial training sessions that portrayed Islam as a violent religion.
By EILEEN SULLIVAN, Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Report shows US police fatalities rose 13 percent in 2011 as firearms-related killings soared
December 28, 2011 | National News
The number of fatalities from departments across the country caused by firearms made 2011 one of the deadliest years in recent history for U.S. law enforcement.
Across the nation, 173 officers died in the line of duty, up 13 percent from 153 the year before, according to numbers as of Wednesday compiled by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Five officers were killed in Virginia in 2011.
The nonprofit group that tracks police deaths also reported that 68 federal, state and local officers were killed by gunfire in 2011, a 15 percent jump from last year when 59 were killed. It marks the first time in 14 years that firearms fatalities were higher than traffic-related deaths. The data shows that 64 officers died in traffic accidents, down from the 71 killed in 2010.
Craig Floyd, the group’s chairman, blamed the rise on budget cuts to public safety departments. He cited surveys by police groups that showed many cut back on training and delay upgrading equipment, and referenced a Department of Justice report issued in October that said an estimated 10,000 police officers and sheriff’s deputies have been laid off within the past year.
“I’m very troubled that these drastic budget cuts have put our officers at a grave risks,” he said. “Our officers are facing a more brazen cold-blooded element and fighting a war on terror, and we’re giving them less training and less equipment they need to do their jobs safely.”
It’s the second year in a row the number of officers killed in the line of duty has grown. In 2009, the death toll dipped to 122 in a 50-year-low that encouraged police groups even though the year seemed to be an aberration. Otherwise, the number of police deaths has topped 160 five other times since 2000. It routinely topped 200 in the 1970s.
Survey: Law Enforcement Overburdened by Failure of Mental Health Departments
December 21, 2011 | National News
A new nationwide survey of 2,406 senior law enforcement officials (75% of whom were officers longer than 20 years) documents police and sheriffs are being tremendously overburdened with the "unintended consequences of a policy change that in effect "removed the daily care of our nation's severely mentally ill population from the medical community and placed it with the criminal justice system." This policy change has caused a spike in the frequency of arrests of severely mentally ill persons...(and) has become a major consumer of law enforcement resources nationwide.
The survey, "Management of the Severely Mentally Ill and its Effects on Homeland Security" by Michael C. Biasotti, vice president, New York State Chiefs of Police while at the Naval Postgraduate School, calls for implementation of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) laws as a way to improve care for people with mental illness, conserve law enforcement resources, and keep patients and public safer. (See list of 115 law enforcement officers who died during altercations with people with mental illness who were left untreated.)
AOT allows courts to order a subset of severely mentally ill individuals who have a past history of dangerous behavior, arrest, incarceration or multiple hospitalizations to accept treatment as a condition of living in the community.
According to the survey:
- 84.28 percent (or 1,866) of the law enforcement respondents said there been an increase in the mentally ill population over the length of their career.
- 63.03 percent (n=1,391) of respondents reported the amount of time that their department spends on calls for service involving individuals with mental illness increased (during their career). An additional 17.72 percent reported that the time spent had substantially increased, totaling 70.7 percent (n=1,782) of respondents reporting an increase.
- 56% said the increase in calls is due to the inability to refer mentally ill to treatment and 61% said more persons with mental illness are being released to the community.
- The officers claimed that mental illness related calls take significantly longer than larceny, domestic dispute, traffic, and other calls.
Halifax police chief to take job with sheriff’s department
December 21, 2011 | Virginia News
Halifax Police Chief David E. Martin will resign effective Dec. 31, Town Manager Carl Espy announced Tuesday.
After serving the residents of the Town of Halifax since September 2006, he has accepted a position with the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, Espy said.
“It has been a real pleasure serving the Town of Halifax over the past six years,” Martin said Tuesday afternoon.
In his letter of resignation, Martin wished Espy and the Town of Halifax continued success and offered to help with the training of his replacement.
“Thank you for allowing me to serve the fine residents and business owners of the Town of Halifax and for your continued commitment to excellence and integrity in all town business,” Martin wrote.
Town Manager Espy commented on the police chief’s resignation saying, “It has been a great pleasure and honor working with David in his capacity as chief of police since September 2006. Over the past five years, the chief and all the professionally trained police department staff under his leadership have continuously aspired to the high standard of serving the community they are sworn to protect with courtesy and compassion while remaining undeterred in upholding and enforcing the law. Such a balance of civility and public safety requires unique talents, characteristics and character; those attributes haven’t gone unnoticed by those within the community David works alongside everyday.
“The town has been fortunate to have David serving as chief during this juncture of his career in law enforcement,” Espy continued, “and I take comfort knowing he will be working nearby at the Halifax County Sheriff’s Department serving with his peers under a new command.”
Espy said during the transition he along with Halifax Mayor Dick Moore, Finance Chairman Holt Evans, Chief Martin and Lieutenant David Irby will work together “going forward.”
Martin began his law enforcement career in the town at the Halifax Police Department in February 1991 as a patrolman.
He has also served as chairman on the Halifax County Board of Supervisors, a military police officer and team leader at Fort Pickett Military Police, Halifax County Sheriff’s Office deputy and officer and shift supervisor at South Boston Police Department.
He served as marketing coordinator at The Software Factory, vice president of Sales, founder and part owner of Pure Internet and shift manager at Domino’s Pizza.
Martin also has served as president of Destination Downtown South Boston and a representative on the Halifax County Board of Supervisors.
He received his associates degree in administration of justice from Danville Community College and a diploma in Arabic language from Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif. He is fluent in reading, writing and speaking Arabic.
Martin served in the Army National Guard from 1997-2000 and the United States Air Force from 1992-1994. He received several awards including, Chief’s Letter of Commendation (Quick Action), Police Service Commendation Medal (Lifesaving), Air Force Achievement Award (Outstanding Service), Air Force Commendation Letter (Lifesaving), Air Force Honor Graduate Ribbon and Police Academy Award-Pistol Marksman.
Harrisonburg Police Chief to Retire in March
December 21, 2011 | Virginia News
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March 31, 2012 will mark a milestone within the Harrisonburg Police Department. Col. Donald G. Harper will wrap up his career and celebrate his tenure as the 17th Chief of Police with the Harrisonburg Police Department.
Col. Harper’s law enforcement career began in 1964 with the Fairfax County Police Department, where he later retired at the rank of major with 20 years of service. In Fairfax County, Col. Harper was one of the founders of their Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams.
From 1984 until 1992, he served as chief of police in the town of Vienna.
In April of 1992, Col. Harper headed to the Shenandoah Valley to assume the rank of chief with HPD.
He has been a guest lecturer for the FBI, CIA, and other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and academies on response to hostage/barricade incidents, incident scene command, hostage negotiations, and crowd management. Col. Harper’s extensive background and training in SWAT and critical incident management has proven beneficial for HPD.
Canines, mountain bikes, motorcycles, evidence technicians, computer forensic investigations, Internet Crimes Against Children taskforce, and polygraph examiners have been established and developed at HPD under Col. Harper’s leadership.
“My personal career goal was to actively serve with a law enforcement agency until I reached the age of 70, which I will accomplish in February,” said Col. D.G. Harper. “My tenure with HPD has been rewarding in many different ways and I’m thankful to have served the citizens of Harrisonburg.”
Upon his retirement, Col. Harper will have dedicated a total of 48 years of service to law enforcement and the communities in which he has served.
“Don is leaving behind big shoes to fill,” said City Manager Kurt Hodgen. “He has been a great leader for our department and a tremendous asset to the law enforcement community in general. We wish him well on his retirement, and know he will continue to be an involved member of the greater Harrisonburg community.”
The position of chief of police will be advertised starting Wednesday, December 21. The City Manager’s Office will handle the hiring process and the search for a new police chief will begin after the first of the year.
An interim chief of police will be announced at a later time.
Chesapeake police officer dies during dive-team training; VACP requests shrouding of badges
December 20, 2011 | Virginia News
The VACP requests that Virginia law enforcement shroud their badges through Wednesday, December 28 in honor of Chesapeake Police Officer Timothy Schock.
Information on memorial services is now available.
View the Online Obituary & Sign the Guestbook
Wake/Viewing
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - 6:00 p.m.
HD Oliver Funeral Home
1416 Cedar Rd., Chesapeake, VA (Directions)
Funeral
Wednesday December 28, 2011 - 11:00 a.m.
Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church, “The Mount” - Cathedral
215 Las Gaviotas Boulevard, Chesapeake, VA (Directions)
Graveside
Immediately following Funeral Service
Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery
5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, VA 23434 (Directions)
Reception
Following Graveside Service
Oak Grove United Methodist Church
472 North Battlefield Boulevard, Chesapeake, VA 23320
Chesapeake Police Chief Kelvin Wright has asked Virginia State Police to investigate the death of a police officer who died Tuesday during a dive training exercise.
"Their expertise in the area of underwater search and rescue will, I am confident, prove valuable to this effort and we greatly appreciate their willingness to assist," Wright wrote in a news release this morning.
A veteran member of the Police Department's dive team, Officer Timothy Schock, 41, died after struggling to breathe while submerged during a training exercise at Oak Grove Lake Park. The exercise was part of search-and-rescue training, according to the Police Department.
When Schock surfaced, he told his team partner, who was with him during the training, that he couldn't breathe, Wright wrote. Schock's partner immediately tried to give him his own respirator, "but under the stress and duress of the situation, Officer Schock pushed away the apparatus and went back under water," according to Wright.
Divers on shore helped get Schock back to the surface and onto land, where they performed CPR, according to Wright. Emergency crews from the Fire Department continued lifesaving efforts.
The officer was taken to Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Wright did not elaborate in today's statement about Schock's death, except to say that information about a memorial for Schock will be released as they are available.
Department spokesperson Kelly O'Sullivan said it is common for police to ask outside agencies to review cases, like accidents and deaths. State Police will work with a member of the Chesapeake Police Department to investigate the dive team's equipment and training techniques, she said.
"There is absolutely nothing suspicious about this," she said. "We just want to see specifically what went wrong."
Schock worked for the department for 16 years, including about eight on the dive team, police spokeswoman Kelly O'Sullivan said. The officer had a teenage son and had served in the U.S. Marine Corps, she said.
Schock is the third Chesapeake police officer to die in the line of duty in the past six years. In October 2005, Officer Michael Saffran, 45, was fatally shot while responding to a bank robbery. In January 2008, Detective Jarrod Shivers, 34, was killed during an attempt to serve a search warrant.
Governor McDonnell Unveils 2013-2014 Budget
December 19, 2011 | Virginia News
Budget Invests in Core Functions of Government; Prioritizes State Spending; Does Not Raise Taxes
McDonnell: "We will not raise taxes on hardworking Virginians. This is a budget that embraces reform and sets priorities, makes Richmond live within its means and requires state government to be more efficient and effective. It positions Virginia for job creation and economic growth in the years ahead."
RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell unveiled his two-year budget for Fiscal Years 2013 and 2014, as well as his amendments to the concluding Fiscal Year 2012 budget, in a speech to the Joint Money Committees of the General Assembly this morning in Richmond. The Governor's budget includes the greatest employer funding of the Virginia Retirement System in state history, provides significant new resources for higher education and K-12, prioritizes funds for transportation maintenance, and supplies more tools for job creation efforts in the state. The budget focuses state spending on the core functions of government, and on policies most directly tied to job creation and economic development, while not raising taxes. Read the full text of the Governor's remarks to the Joint Money Committees (PDF)
Speaking about the first two-year budget of his administration, the Governor remarked, "In these difficult times for Virginia and our country, each state is responsible for how it chooses to navigate forward. In the Commonwealth, we have chosen a path of fiscal responsibility, accountability and restraint. Over the past two years we have eliminated $6 billion in budget shortfalls, and set spending back to nearly 2007 levels. We have not raised taxes. During that same period we have put historic new funding into transportation and job creation, and we have made the tough choices about where limited taxpayer dollars should be directed to best spur private sector job creation. We have seen the results. Virginia has the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast, and the third-lowest rate east of the Mississippi River. Compared to the first month of our administration, 63,000 more Virginians are working today. Our commitment to responsible budgeting has led to two consecutive budget surpluses. Now, as state revenues begin to recover and our economy continues to turn around, we must diligently exercise the fiscal restraint and responsibility that has fueled this success."
The Governor continued, "The budget bill that I am presenting today reflects the core priorities of government and our administration. It recognizes the realities of this economy. This is not a status quo period in Virginia history, thus, this is not a status quo budget. This budget prioritizes spending, ideas and policies that promote job creation, economic development and entrepreneurship. It reforms, restructures and reinvests in programs that work and make government more efficient and effective and accountable. It funds well key budget areas like education and transportation that lay the foundation for a prosperous future for our citizens. It helps solve specific big problems, like our near broken pension system, an underfunded transportation infrastructure system, and a higher education system in which tuitions have doubled in the last ten years. And it builds up cash reserves and liquidity as insurance to provide us flexibility in addressing the potential impacts of adverse future economic events and to ensure that we maintain Virginia's critically important Aaa bond rating."
He concluded, "This is a budget marked by tough decisions demanded by this difficult economy. Virginia citizens and businesses live on budgets and make tough decisions every day. Richmond must continue to do so as well. It is critically important that we do. When we live within our means and make government work better, we create the conditions in which private sector job creation can flourish and the citizens of Virginia can innovate, achieve and find the opportunities for success they need and deserve."
General fund revenues are expected to grow 3.3 percent in fiscal year 2013 and 4.5 percent in fiscal year 2014.
Selected Highlights of the Governor's Biennial Budget:
- Recommends $2.21 billion in total employer contributions to Virginia's Retirement System.
- This is the largest state contribution and the largest total employer contribution to VRS in history.
- Provides $200 million in new funding for Virginia's higher education system to make college more affordable and accessible for Virginia students.
- Directs an additional $438 million in total new state funding to public education for the next biennium.
- Requires reform initiatives for K-12 education that focus on performance by requiring the Department of Education to include in the annual School Performance Report Card for school divisions the percentage of each division's annual operating budget allocated to instructional costs, with a goal of increasing classroom spending to 65% of the budget.
- Provides much needed liquidity in the state budget by leaving an unappropriated balance in the budget of $31.4 million, which is significantly greater than the $5 to $10 million that is normally left on the bottom line, reflecting the need for a greater cushion given economic uncertainty.
- Stabilizes Virginia's finances by growing the Rainy Day Fund by $132 million in FY 2013 and $168 million in FY 2014.
- The Rainy Day Fund should double in size by end of FY 2014 with continued revenue growth, exceeding $600 million.
- Places $50 million into a new Federal Action Contingency Fund (FACT Fund), a cash reserve, that can be used to mitigate a variety of negative impacts on Virginia related to likely future adverse federal budget actions which cannot be addressed by the Rainy Day Fund.
- This Fund will be used to replace certain losses in direct federal grants; provide incentives to retain or consolidate federal facilities in Virginia, much like how the Commonwealth currently handles BRAC; address federal tax policy changes from conformity; and help businesses impacted by federal procurement or defense contracts as they change to other customers.
- Appropriates $40 million in new funding for continued aggressive economic development efforts to encourage and facilitate private sector job creation.
- Includes provision for up to a 3% bonus to full-time state employees on Dec. 1, 2012 if the state collectively saves at least twice the cost of the bonus $160 million. This one-time bonus, if achieved, would also save Virginia taxpayers at least $83 million.
- Increases the dedicated transportation allocation of the sales tax from .5% to .75% over the next 8 years.
- During the upcoming budget, the dedicated sales tax percentage will be increased to .55%, generating over $110 in critical new transportation funding for maintenance.
- Increases mental health funding by $30 million to continue transition to more community based care.
- In the FY 2012 budget amendments, $50 million is appropriated to eliminate the accelerated sales tax for 96% of all previously impacted retailers.
Full Breakdown of All the Governor's Budget Actions (PDF)
Evidence Confirms Connection Between Two Fatal Shootings on Virginia Tech Campus
December 9, 2011 | Virginia News
BLACKSBURG, Va. – Ballistics evidence testing has officially linked the two fatal shootings that occurred Thursday afternoon (Dec. 8, 2011) on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Va. Testing conducted by the Virginia Department of Forensic Science has confirmed that both victims were shot by the same weapon.
At approximately 12:15 p.m., Virginia Tech Police Officer Deriek W. Crouse had a vehicle stopped in the Coliseum parking lot along Washington Street near the intersection of Spring Road. During the course of the traffic stop, Officer Crouse was approached by an unknown male and fatally shot. The male subject then fled on foot from the scene.
Virginia Tech Police, Blacksburg Police and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office immediately responded to the scene and began canvassing the campus for the shooting suspect. At approximately 12:45 p.m., a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a male pedestrian in the Cage parking lot along Duck Pond Drive. When the deputy reached the male subject, he found the man on the ground and deceased with a handgun nearby. The two shooting scenes are less than a half of a mile apart.
The bodies of both Officer Crouse and the male subject were transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Roanoke for examination and autopsy. State police are still awaiting confirmation of the male subject’s identity.
Virginia State Police have been able to review Officer Crouse’s in-car video. The video captured a male subject with a handgun at the officer’s car at the time of the shooting. Later Thursday afternoon, Blacksburg Police recovered a discarded backpack at the Greenhouses on the Virginia Tech campus. The clothing found inside the backpack is similar to the clothing worn by the male subject in the officer’s video.
The Virginia Tech, Blacksburg and Christiansburg police departments, and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office have assisted Virginia State Police with the ongoing investigation.
Funeral arrangements set for Officer Deriek W. Crouse
December 8, 2011 | Virginia News
The VACP requests that Virginia law enforcement shroud their badges through Monday, December 12 in honor of Virginia Tech Police Officer Deriek Crouse.
VIEWING
Sunday, December 11, 2011
3:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Horne Funeral Home
1300 North Franklin Street
Christiansburg, VA 24073
(540) 382-2612
FUNERAL SERVICE
Monday, December 12, 2011
2:00 pm.
Cassell Coliseum, Virginia Tech Campus
Burial service to follow at a local cemetery. Information will be provided at the funeral.
DONATIONS
A memorial fund has been established for the family of Officer Crouse. Make checks payable to "Deriek Crouse Memorial Fund" and mail contributions to:
National Bank of Blacksburg
Attn: Dana Sutphin
PO BOX 90002
Blacksburg VA 24062-9002
Slain Virginia Tech officer identified
Virginia Tech Police have identified the officer murdered today during a traffic stop on campus as Deriek W. Crouse, 39, of Christiansburg.
Crouse joined the Virginia Tech Police Department on Oct. 27, 2007, and served in the patrol division. He is survived by his wife, five children and step-children, and his mother and brother.
He received his law enforcement certification on Feb. 12, 2008, from the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy. Officer Crouse was trained as a Crisis Intervention Officer, General Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Defensive Tactics instructor and most recently completed training for Advance Law Enforcement Rapid Response and Mechanical and Ballistic Instructor.
Officer Crouse was a member of the Virginia Tech Police Emergency Response Team since February 2011. He received an award in 2008 for his commitment to the department's Driving Under the Influence efforts.
He formerly worked at the New River Valley Jail, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, and was a U.S. Army veteran.
Funeral arrangements will be announced at later date.
This story can be found on the Virginia Tech News website:
http://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2011/12/120811-unirel-crousememoriam.html
RELATED COVERAGE: Campus seeks answers after Virginia Tech officer killed (Roanoke Times)
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STATEMENT FROM VT OFFICIALS (1:50 PM):
"Shortly after 12 p.m. today, a Virginia Tech Police officer stopped a vehicle on campus during a routine traffic stop in the Coliseum parking lot near McComas Hall.
During the traffic stop. the officer was shot and killed. There were witnesses to this shooting.
Witnesses reported to police the shooter fled on foot heading toward the Cage, a parking lot near Duck Pond Drive. At that parking lot, a second person was found. That person is also deceased.
Several law enforcement agencies have responded to assist. Virginia State police has been requested to take lead in the investigation
Status of the shooter is unknown. The campus community should continue to shelter in place and visitors should not come to campus."
State trooper shot, Interstate 95 closed north of Richmond
December 8, 2011 | Virginia News
CAROLINE COUNTY, VA (WTVR) - The southbound lanes of Interstate 95 are closed near the Thornburg exit (mile marker 118).
Jon Burkett is reporting a state trooper was shot in that area. Jon reports the injuries are non-life threatening.
Sheriff's Office sources told Jon the suspect grabbed the trooper's gun and shot the trooper. The trooper had another gun and returned fire. The suspect was shot dead.
WUSA in Washinginton DC is reporting the shooting took place at a rest area just south of Fredericksburg.
According to www.511virginia.org, the south center lane, right lane, and right shoulder are closed.
Vinton hires new police chief from within
December 8, 2011 | Virginia News
Interim Chief Ben Cook and one other finalist were interviewed out of 27 applicantsThe Vinton Town Council tonight selected Ben Cook, a 10-year veteran of the department and interim chief since July, as police chief.
Since he assumed leadership of the force, Cook has focused on reaching out to the community through neighborhood watch and other programs, Town Manager Chris Lawrence said.
The five town council members agreed unanimously to name Cook their next department head.
"You have given this council a clear choice," Councilman Wes Nance said. "I knew that interim chief never had quite the right ring to it, but chief does."
The 46-year-old captain took the department's reins in July after 11-year Chief Herbert Cooley retired. Cooley had rebuilt the department and led it to state accreditation after the resignation of his predecessor following a grand jury investigation.
Of 27 applicants, Cook was one of two finalists the town council and other administrators interviewed for the job, Lawrence said. He declined to name the other finalist.
Cook will earn $69,500, Lawrence said. The chief and his wife, Lory, live outside town limits in Roanoke County and now plan to move to Vinton.
By Katelyn Polantz | The Roanoke Times
State Crime Commission rejects campus crime notification proposals
December 6, 2011 | Virginia News
Panel fails to support legislation that would require campus police to report deaths and rapes to local authorities.
Two measures that would have required campus police departments to notify outside law enforcement and the local commonwealth’s attorney when a death or rape is reported failed in votes taken today by the Virginia State Crime Commission.
However, the commission supported the development of mutual aid agreements between local jurisdictions and campus police agencies.
The commission’s actions on the failed measures will result in no recommendations about those proposals being forwarded to the upcoming session of the General Assembly.
They were part of amended legislation proposed by Del. Paula J. Miller, D-Norfolk, that would require greater collaboration between local and campus police.
Specifically, a measure that would have required campus police to immediately notify local law enforcement agencies of all deaths and reported rapes on campus -– with the same requirement for local police if they first took a report -– failed on a 5-5 vote.
Then, the commission voted down a measure 7-3 that would have required campus police to notify the local commonwealth’s attorney’s office within 24 hours after receiving a report of a death or rape.
Several commission members expressed concern that campus police agencies were being singled out, and others said they have no evidence that campus police could not independently investigate such crimes on their own.
"My issue with this is not so much the notice. Typically I get notice of these things far earlier than 24 hours," said Commissioner Jim Plowman, who serves as Loundon County commonwealth's attorney. "My issue here is singling out campus police departments. Why are we doing that? We received no information, no evidence, that these campus police departments are somehow inferior, inadequately trained or poorly staffed."
On the issue of requiring campus police to notify commonwealth's attorneys, Plowman said "you'd see a slew of them here today" if they truly felt like they were being kept in the dark. "If we truly wanted to enshire this with a 24-hour notice, I'd say it should be for all law enforcement -- not just campus police."
The commission’s actions so infuriated Kathryn Russell, who testified last month that U.Va. police mishandled the investigation when she reported she had been raped in her dorm room seven years ago, that she made an obscene gesture to the panel members while leaving the meeting room.
Miller took a broader view.
“It’s a mixed bag,” she said of the commission’s actions. “We have the mutual aid agreements, which is certainly a start. (I’m) a little disappointed that the mandatory notification failed on a 5-5 vote. Had there been more committee members here, who knows what would have happened.”
“Of course, this is the first step in the process,” she added. “It goes to the General Assembly with the mutual aid agreements, and we can add to it.”
Miller said she and other bill supporters will be lobbying commonwealth’s attorneys across the state between now and the start of the assembly.
Said Russell:
“I do wish that some of these individuals in the room today were better informed. I felt that the came with agendas ahead of time. I don’t understand why there would be a problem for mandatory notification.”
(This has been a breaking news update. Check back for more details as they become available. Read more in tomorrow's Richmond Times-Dispatch.)
Virginia State Crime Commission backs campus-local police cooperation
November 16, 2011 | Virginia News
RICHMOND, Va. (AP/WTVR) — The Virginia State Crime Commission seems set to embrace legislation to bolster cooperation by campus and local police departments.
The commission on Wednesday directed its staff to draft a measure that would require the departments to adopt mutual aid agreements governing investigations of deaths and sexual assaults on Virginia campuses.
The commission will decide whether to make the measure part of its legislative package next month.
Del. Paula Miller originally proposed legislation that would require campus police to hand off responsibility for death and sexual assault investigations to local police.The legislation is named House Bill 2490, or "Kathryn's Law"- named after rape victim, Kathryn Russell.
Campus and local police alike opposed the bill, saying it would weaken college police departments.
Roanoke PD’s Internal & External Strategy to a Successful Social Media Experience
November 16, 2011 | Virginia News
by Roanoke Police Chief Chris Perkins
The Roanoke Police Department has endeavored to embrace social media. This approach is based on the reality that social media does impact both internal and external communication.
The Roanoke Police Department has endeavored to embrace the social media movement. This approach is based on the reality that social media does impact both internal and external communication.
By embracing the social media reality, we believe that we can limit the potential for negative actions and influence a positive experience. Based on this conclusion, our strategy was developed to establish influence and standards over the use of social media to make this a positive tool in communication for our agency.
The initial strategy of the agency included an internal policy development and training for the use of social media for employees. A national spotlight has already established that law enforcement officers are subject to accountability for private comments made in social media. While high standards are the norm for law enforcement, the application of standards to a social media initiative is a new approach. Our agency policy utilizes a collective expression of caution that did not severely limit the abilities of officers to maintain freedom of expression. It also helped encourage the need for employees to understand the rules of engagement for social media.
During the initial development of our social media policy, we consulted legal experts and research for guidance. Our focus was to educate officers on both the positive and the negative approaches to social media. It was made clear that there are limitations to how the individual officer can express opinions when positing on a social media forum. We established clear direction for our officers on the agency’s interpretation of the rules for use of social media. This direction focused on how the officers represented themselves as members of this agency.
While we did not tell offers exactly everything they could or could not say in a social media environment, we clearly articulated the rules for acceptable practices. By establishing this standard, officers were given a fair playing field. If the officers decided to risk questionable actions, they were made aware of how the agency would address the issue. This was solidified with training sessions conducted by our municipal attorney and command staff personnel with officers in the agency prior to the implementation of the policy.
The second step of our strategy was to encourage officers to utilize social media. We made no attempts to discourage the use of social media and offered opportunities for officers to consult with the agency to verify they were within policy. Officers can be granted permission to post uniformed photographs or work comments on a social media page, but they realize that once this is done, they will be accountable for any postings, photographs, or wording as a representative of the agency. If they choose to keep work-related material off the page, they will be accountable for any posting or photographs that would be conduct unbecoming of a law enforcement officer. This provides two approaches to the personal use of social media and provides the employees an opportunity to decide which approach they want to take.
Policies are designed to address reality. We train officers to drive police cars, we give them the ability to decide when to use force, and we provide them with a weapon. We train them because we realize that they will practice what we train. We then write policies to guide those actions. We apply the same logic to social media. It is quickly becoming modern communication for both the old and the new generations and, as a result, we should expect it will be utilized and we should prepare our employees to do so successfully.
The third step of our strategy was to initiate an external agency social media approach. Our focus would be placed on crime prevention, community involvement, and community policing. It was determined that our use of social media could not be dormant and inactive. We made a commitment to make our use of social media a daily interactive page. By consulting our generation of social media users, it was apparent that if we attempt to create a social media presence, we could not afford to be inactive. The key to social media success is to provide current information daily that stimulates the interest of the users. Users of our social media site must feel that they are actively communicating and have the ability to get answers or information without delay. This commitment required a team approach. Vital to our third step was encouraging our employees to follow our department social media sources within their own personal links and devices. Additionally, we allow our Facebook page to be viewed in real time in our patrol lineup rooms on large viewing screens.
The most important aspect to the third step approach is trust from the leadership.
The final step in our social media approach was to give the people what they want. This has always been a difficult approach for law enforcement because of the nature of our work. By conducting research and evaluations of public response to our posting, we have allowed our readers to establish a broader focus on our approach. By providing the posts and data that intrigue our followers, we are able to maintain a high rate of user activity. This also allows us to insert crime prevention information, crime statistics, and internal recognition among the posts that are often in demand.
It has been apparent to our agency that our followers prefer the positive postings and information over the most traditional, rigid law enforcement material. These posts draw the most views, and we now look to find ways to create more positive news. We realized that when people buy newspapers, they will glance at the news and then read the sports section or the comics. It is our strategy to give the public the news, the sports, and the comics–all of which are directly related to our agency.
While we focus on our presence as a professional, dedicated, and highly trained department, we are not afraid to show the lighter side of our jobs. This also gives us the opportunity to acknowledge individual employees, internal events, and department accomplishments.
It is not a bold assessment to say that the rules of law enforcement communication are changing. Our goal is to be an active part of that change without waiting for it to change who we are.
Roanoke PD's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/rpdsafercity
Roanoke PD's Twitter account: http://twitter.com//rpdsafercity
Preventing Line of Duty Deaths – A Chief’s Duty
November 16, 2011 | National News
The National Center for the Prevention of Violence Against the Police (National Center) rolled out its first publication, "Preventing Line of Duty Deaths, A Chief’s Duty", at IACP 2011. The mission of the National Center is to prevent violence against the police, and the first publication is a checklist designed to target key areas that agencies can address to reduce officer injury and line of duty deaths.
To respond to the need for critical information on felonious assaults directed at law enforcement, the IACP in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, has established the National Center for the Prevention of Violence Against the Police. The mission of the National Center is to learn, through analysis of data, forensic interviews, and post-incident investigations, how violence against police officers can be prevented.
By examining pre-incident and post-incident variables, as well as the incident itself, the National Center will develop protocol and strategies across the criminal justice system to prevent, and ultimately eliminate, violence against law enforcement officers.
Part of the National Center’s work will be to integrate findings into the broader body of knowledge on duty-related injuries, disabilities, and deaths, as well as survival tactics, in order to enhance overall community and officer safety efforts.
The National Center’s operations will focus on conducting research and analysis, translating the findings into actionable information, and disseminating recommendations to the field. The National Center will also serve as a channel through which the field can be connected to existing resources (e.g.: training, sample policies, guidebooks, reports, etc).
Preventing Line of Duty Deaths: A Chief’s Duty
This agency self assessment tool is designed to help law enforcement leaders evaluate their agency’s efforts to fully address the safety needs of their officers. Use this tool to proactively examine the range of critical officer safety strategies and determine areas where your agency can take action to improve. When taken together, the infrastructure improvements, systemic policies and strategies covered by this checklist will enhance officer safety and potentially prevent acts of violence against law enforcement.
Use the resource identified for each topic to help you address these issues within your agency and use the checklist on the back page to map your progress.
For more information on these strategies and additional resources, statistics, and facts please refer to the links below:
2011 IACP Community Policing Award Winners, Finalists Announced
October 25, 2011 | National News
IACP and Cisco Recognize Agencies for Outstanding Community Policing; Purcellville, Va. Police Selected As Winner
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Sept. 16, 2011) – Director Todd A. Miller, chairman of the Community Policing Committee for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) is proud to formally announce that five agencies have been selected to receive the 2011 Community Policing Award from IACP and Cisco. Additionally, seven agencies were selected as finalists.
“The philosophy of community policing is more relevant and necessary today than ever before,” said Miller. “With resources limited by current economic conditions, the force multiplication agencies receive by implementing the community policing philosophy and partnering with citizens is the most effective means of making our communities safer, whether it be from crime or from terrorism.”
Law enforcement agencies were eligible to nominate in five categories based on population. This year’s five winners and seven finalists are examples of community policing best practices. Their entries demonstrate the meaningful change that can occur when law enforcement officials and their communities are empowered to utilize all available resources for crime prevention and improvement of quality of life.
The Winners are:
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Population fewer than 20,000 residents
Purcellville Police Department – Purcellville, VA
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Population of 20,001 to 50,000 residents
New Brighton Dept. of Public Safety – New Brighton, MN
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Population of 50,001 to 100,000 residents
New Rochelle Police Department – New Rochelle, NY
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Population of 100,001 to 250,000 residents
Dayton Police Department – Dayton, OH
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Population of 250,001+ residents
Waterloo Regional Police Service – Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Finalists selected by the committee are:
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Population fewer than 20,000
Lincoln Police Department – Lincoln, NH
Sandwich Police Department – Sandwich, NH
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Population of 20,001 to 50,000
Madison City Police Department – Madison, AL
Hurst Police Department – Hurst, TX
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Population of 50,001 to 100,000
Rowlett Police Department – Rowlett, TX
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Population of 100,001 to 250,000
No Finalists Selected
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Population of over 250,001
Albuquerque Police Department – Albuquerque, NM
Boston Police Department – Boston, MA
The committee also recognizes agencies that demonstrate its community policing initiatives aimed at improving homeland security. The recognition highlights how the community policing philosophy and practices are integral in terrorism prevention and response. Through involvement, awareness and action, agencies and communities move another step closer to winning the war on terror. This year the committee did not recognize an agency within this category.
“Community policing is vitally important to the international policing community and to the state, local and tribal communities we serve,” said Mark A. Marshall, chief of the Smithfield, VA, Police Department and President of the IACP. “Adopting the Community Policing philosophy of partnerships and problem solving positions law enforcement agencies to successfully work together with their citizens to create a safer environment while combating crime and supporting homeland security. Community policing is central to the success of the police mission as we provide cost effective services to our diverse communities.”
Award winners will be honored at the IACP’s Annual Conference Banquet in Chicago on Oct. 26. The committee also honored the winners and finalists at a private reception on Oct. 23.
The IACP’s Community Policing committee developed the Community Policing Award in 1998 to recognize outstanding community policing initiatives by law enforcement agencies worldwide.
“Cisco is honored to support public safety organizations around the world and recognize the contributions of community policing agencies represented by the IACP Community Policing Awards.” said Bob Stanberry, former Chief of Police and current Public Safety Channel Solutions for Cisco, for the Community Policing Awards. “We’re proud to support this outstanding awards program and collaborate with agencies in local communities.”
Further information on Community Policing and how to submit for the 2012 Award is available online at the IACP Community Policing Committee website at www.iacpcommunitypolicing.org. The site is a community policing resource for law enforcement practitioners.
About The IACP
The International Association of Chiefs of Police is the world’s oldest and largest nonprofit membership organization of police executives, with more than 20,000 members in more than 140 different countries. IACP's leadership consists of the operating chief executives of international, federal, state and local agencies of all sizes.
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Contact:
Director Todd Miller, Comm. Chair
(214) 616-1230
ChiefTAM@aol.com
Travis Parrish
(804) 556-3133
travis.parrish@parrishsolutions.com
Dumfries names new police chief
October 17, 2011 | Virginia News
Dumfries now has a permanent police chief - Robert Forker.
The Dumfries Town Council voted unanimously this week to name Forker to the post that he has held in an interim role for the past two months.
When former town manager Kim Alexander left her job in August, then Dumfries police Chief Dan Taber was named interim town manager and Forker, then Dumfries police administrative manager, took over as interim chief.
With the council’s vote on Forker, the reshuffling has ended since Taber was named to the permanent town manager job last month.
VACP Installs 2011-2012 Executive Board
October 4, 2011 | VACP
Galax Police Chief Richard C. Clark, Jr., becomes 2010-2011 President;
Retired Waynesboro Police Chief Douglas Davis completes 2010-2011 term as VACP President
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police on September 27th installed the 2011-2012 VACP Executive Board during the Valor Awards Banquet of the association’s annual conference in Norfolk, Virginia. The new board members are:
PRESIDENT – Chief Richard C. Clark, Jr., Galax – Chief Clark has a master’s degree in Criminal Justice, and has been chief of police since 2001. He was appointed in 2010 to represent the VACP on the Virginia Criminal Justice Services Board, and serves on the DCJS Law Enforcement Command Advisory Group for Homeland Security and the DCJS Law Enforcement Subcommittee. Chief Clark is a graduate of the 13th session of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy. His agency has been accredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission, and he led the City of Galax to certification as a Crime Prevention Community.
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT – Chief Douglas L. Davis (Retired), Waynesboro – Chief Davis serves on the Association’s Finance and Budget Committee and Virginia Highway Safety Committee. He is a graduate of the Virginia Police Chiefs Foundation’s Professional Executive Leadership School, and is known for his expertise in police communications and patrol operations. Chief Davis retired from the Waynesboro Police Department in February, 2011, and currently teaches criminal justice courses at Mary Baldwin College in Staunton.
1ST VICE PRESIDENT – Chief James E. Williams, Staunton – Chief Williams has a master’s degree in Criminal Justice, and is a graduate of the FBI Academy. He represents the VACP on the Virginia Amber Alert Board, and on the Law Enforcement Executives Advisory Committee of the Virginia Crime Prevention Association. Since October, 2007, he has served as the Virginia representative to the State Associations of Chiefs of Police (SACOP) division of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
2ND VICE PRESIDENT – Chief Timothy J. Longo, Sr., Charlottesville – Chief Longo has a law degree from the University Of Baltimore School Of Law, and has completed the Senior Management Institute for Police sponsored by the Police Executive Research Forum. He has experience in global strategic management consulting, and has served as project coordinator for the District of Columbia and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Communications Technology initiatives. Chief Longo served with the Baltimore Police Department from 1981-2000, rising to the rank of Chief of Technical Services. He represents the VACP on the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission.
3RD VICE PRESIDENT – Chief Gary W. Roche, Pulaski – Chief Roche has been Chief of Police in Pulaski since 2001, and has a Masters Degree in Administration of Justice. He is a graduate of the FBI Academy and the Professional Executive Leadership School. He has served as president of the Blue Ridge Association of Chiefs of Police, and currently serves on the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission.
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
Colonel Thierry G. Dupuis, Chesterfield County – Colonel Dupuis was appointed the chief of police for the Chesterfield County Police Department in 2007. Colonel Dupuis has served within all major divisions within the department. He is the 7th chief in the department's history and the first to have held all ranks within the department including officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major and lieutenant colonel. Colonel Dupuis holds an associate degree in applied science from John Tyler Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master's degree in business administration from Averett College. (2010-2014 term)
Colonel David M. Rohrer, Fairfax County – Colonel Rohrer has been chief of the Fairfax County Police Department since 2004 and a member of the department since 1980. During his career, he has been recognized in numerous commendations and has earned a Meritorious Service Award, an Outstanding Performance Award and a Bronze Valor Award. He was appointed in 2010 to represent the VACP on the Virginia Criminal Justice Services Board. (2010-2014 term)
Chief Douglas A. Goodman, Jr., Ashland – Chief Goodman was appointed Ashland police chief in 2008, where he has worked to enhance officer productivity and effectiveness. Under his watch, his agency has increased number of Neighborhood Watch programs by 50% and reduced traffic accidents by 38% over a three-year period. Chief Goodman holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Sociology from Virginia Tech and a Master’s in Public Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Center for Policing Innovation. (2011-2015 term)
Chief David C. Sloggie, Williamsburg – Chief Sloggie has 35 years of experience with the Williamsburg Police Department, and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Criminology from Saint Leo College and a Master’s in Justice Administration from Golden Gate University. He is a 1989 graduate of the FBI National Academy, a 1992 graduate of the United States Secret Service Dignitary Protection School, and a 1996 graduate of the Police Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond. (2011-2015 term)
Chief Kelvin L. Wright, Chesapeake – Chief Wright was appointed the Chesapeake police chief in 2008, and has been a champion for change in the agency and for crime reduction in the community. Chief Wright has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree, Cum Laude, in Sociology from Saint Leo University; a Master’s in Public Administration from Troy University and is pursuing a PhD in Public Administration and Urban Policy from Old Dominion University. He is active in developing leadership education programs for the Virginia Police Chiefs Foundation. (2011-2015 term)
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is a statewide organization of federal, state and local police chiefs and law enforcement executives dedicated to improving the professionalism of police agencies in Virginia. The Association was founded in 1926 and has more than 600 members. The Association provides annual training programs for law enforcement executives, directs a statewide traffic safety program for law enforcement, produces Freedom of Information Act guidelines for law enforcement and lobbies for law enforcement interests at the state and federal level. The Virginia Police Chiefs Foundation is a charitable educational foundation created by the VACP to provide training and education programs for law enforcement.
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Photo Caption: Front (L to R) – Pulaski Police Chief Gary Roche, Chief (Ret) Doug Davis, Galax Police Chief Rick Clark, Staunton Police Chief Jim Williams, Charlottesville Police Chief Tim Longo; Back (L to R) – Chesterfield County Police Chief Thierry Dupuis, Fairfax County Police Chief Dave Rohrer, Chesapeake Police Chief Kelvin Wright, Williamsburg Police Chief Dave Sloggie. Not pictured: Ashland Police Chief Doug Goodman
Photo Credit: Erin Schrad, VACP
Photos available online at http://photos.vachiefs.org/VACP-Conferences/2011-VACP-Annual-Conference/2011-09-27-VACP-Awards-Banquet/
Herndon Police Chief Summers to Retire November 1
September 8, 2011 | Virginia News
Accepts Top Position in New Bern, NC
Herndon, VA (September 6, 2011) – Toussaint E. Summers, Jr., Chief of Police for the Town of Herndon since 1999, has notified Town Manager Arthur A. Anselene of his intent to retire from the town’s force, effective November 1, 2011. Summers will be relocating to New Bern, NC, where he has accepted that community’s top law enforcement position.
“Toussaint has provided twelve years of principled, highly effective leadership to the Herndon Police Department, significantly benefitting the town and its citizens,” said Anselene. “It is with heartfelt gratitude for his service that we wish him all the best as in his new position.”
Highlights of Summers’ tenure with the town include his role as a founder and chair of the Northern Virginia Gang Task Force, a regional initiative that has proven successful in curtailing gang activity; his professional management and oversight of the town’s participation in the federal 287(g) program, as one of the first communities to successfully employ the program; his departmental leadership, resulting in national and state certifications as well as recognition as a Certified Crime Prevention Community; and his and the department’s recognition with the International Chief of Police Community Policing Award and several placements in the Law Enforcement Challenge Traffic Safety Awards.
“It is with mixed emotions that I leave Herndon and prepare for my new responsibilities as New Bern’s Chief of Police,” said Summers. “The men and women of the Herndon Police Department are second to none in their commitment to public safety and community policing. It has been my privilege and honor to serve with them.”
An acting Chief of Police will be appointed by Anselene, at which point the search for Summers’ replacement will be launched.
The Town of Herndon was incorporated by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia on January 14, 1879. Located in western Fairfax County, Herndon is the 3rd largest town in the Commonwealth and is home to more than 23,000 citizens. Businesses located within the Town of Herndon range from high tech enterprises and major corporations to entrepreneurially-owned establishments. Business Week Magazine has named Herndon one of the nation’s “Best Affordable Suburbs,” Money Magazine has ranked Herndon among its “Best Places for the Rich and Single,” and CNNMoney.com has named Herndon one of the “Best Places to Live in America.”
For more information, visit the town’s Web site at www.herndon-va.gov.
Jennifer S. Love Named Assistant Director of the Security Division
August 27, 2011 | National News
Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Jennifer S. Love assistant director of the FBI’s Security Division. Ms. Love most recently served as acting assistant director of the FBI’s Inspection Division.
Ms. Love began her career with the FBI as a financial analyst in the St. Louis Division and completed new agents training in Quantico, Virginia in 1987. She started her career as an FBI special agent in the New Orleans Division, then the Chicago Division, and later returned to the New Orleans Division’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency. Ms. Love investigated white-collar crime, violent crime, and civil rights matters.
In 1997, she was appointed as a supervisory special agent in the Office of Professional Responsibility at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Love transferred to the Philadelphia Division in 1999 in a supervisory role, where she led a white-collar crime/computer intrusions squad.
Ms. Love was named assistant special agent in charge in the Baltimore Field Office in 2002. Then in 2005, she returned to Headquarters as section chief in the Counterterrorism Division. She oversaw administrative functions and programs, and later oversaw the Counterterrorism Division’s Communication Exploitation Section.
In 2006, Ms. Love reported to the Washington Field Office as special agent in charge of the Criminal Division. She was appointed as special agent in charge of the Richmond Division in 2008. In 2010, she served as deputy assistant director in the Inspection Division, where she oversaw the Office of Inspections, Inspection Strategic Analysis Section, Internal Investigations Section, and External Audit Section.
Ms. Love is native of Mississippi and holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Jackson State University. Ms. Love worked in the private sector prior to her FBI career.
Roanoke County police chief Ray Lavinder will retire Nov. 1
August 27, 2011 | Virginia News
Lavinder was president of the VACP from 2007-2008.
Roanoke County Police Chief Ray Lavinder, the dean of the region's law enforcement, said he will retire after a 39-year career that included the creation of the county police department and a landscape that changed from rural to suburban.
Lavinder, 65, said Friday that he will leave Nov. 1. He's been chief for 14 years and oversaw the creation of a police academy and the school officer program. He admitted he won't see some projects to completion.
"Look at my age. Look at my face," Lavinder said with a laugh in his office. "It's time to go."
Assistant Police Chief Terrell Holbrook, 53, will become acting police chief when Lavinder leaves, said County Administrator Clay Goodman, the chief's boss. Holbrook is a 31-year veteran of the department.
The county has begun recruiting for a permanent chief and will form a selection committee to screen candidates, Goodman said. The process will take four to six months, he said.
Lavinder is the longest-serving chief in the Roanoke and New River valleys. He started patrolling the streets of Arlington County in 1972, after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he studied social science education, and in 1979 moved to the Roanoke County Sheriff's Office.
VACP Office Back to Normal; Member Area Accessible
August 26, 2011 | VACP
UPDATE (6:00pm, Monday): Phones and Internet have been back up for more than a day now... I think we might be good! Here's hoping for a normal week!
UPDATE (12:00noon, Thursday): I think I am jinxing us with these updates. Comcast is out again. (Honestly, it's the storm damage... we pay our bills!)
UPDATE (11:30am, Thursday): We are back online! And cautiously optimistic that it's going to stick this time. (Boy... I really hope "Katia" stays out to sea!)
UPDATE (8:30am, Thursday): Well... That was short-lived! We have lost Internet, phones and fax again. Hopefully they will be reconnected again soon... We're guessing that crews working in the area manually disconnected us while they repair other lines.
UPDATE (3:30pm, Wednesday): We're back! Comcast services were restored around 2:45pm today. Thank you all for your patience as we've been disconnected from the rest of the world. If you were waiting to register for the conference or pay dues, please feel free to use the online member area/registration system again.
UPDATE (1:30pm, Tuesday): Power at the office was restored as of this morning, but Comcast services are still out -- no phone, no fax, no internet, and online member area and registrations are still unavailable.
UPDATE (11:30am, Sunday): Could be a while before office is up and running again. In the meantime, stay up to date with us via http://www.Facebook.com/vachiefs and http://twitter.com/vachiefs.
UPDATE (2pm, Saturday): The office has in fact lost power. We'll see how long it takes to be restored. Don't know if we'll be back up Monday or not.
There is a strong chance that the VACP office will be without power for an extended period as a result of Hurricane Irene as we were following Isabel. In that event, our office phones, fax and the online registration/member area of our web site will all be down and our email will be interrupted (although we have a backup email system we can use). The main portion of this web site, our Facebook page and twitter account however will be unaffected.
For individuals and vendors from areas unaffected by the hurricane that may be trying to register online for our Annual Conference in September, please be aware that those pages could be unavailable even though the rest of our web site is up. This is because the registration pages are hosted on the server in our office whereas the rest of our web site is hosted externally. We hope you will attempt to register again once we are fully back online. Of course, you could always register now before the storm hits!
There is a chance that, as with Isabel, VACP staff will regain access to power and internet either at home or through some other access BEFORE power and internet access are restored to the VACP office. If that happens, we will be working remotely as much as we can. Notices will be posted here and on our social media sites to update you to that effect.
Additionally, so long as the batteries last or phones can be charged, Executive Director Dana Schrad and Communications Manager Erin Schrad may be reached on their cell phones: Dana at (804) 338-9512 and Erin at (804) 512-5162.
We know that the majority of our members and their officers will be working long hours to keep their communities safe throughout this storm and afterwards. If we can help in any way, including assistance with setting mutual aid agreements with departments from other areas of the state or finding equipment or other resources, please let us know.
Be safe!
DMV Alerts Law Enforcement to Changes in Print on Demand Temp Tags
August 24, 2011 | Virginia News
Dealers now issuing tags in three different formats
Since Virginia automobile dealers began the transition to the Department of Motor Vehicles’ (DMV) Print-on-Demand (PoD) temporary tags in December 2009, nearly 295,000 PoD tags have been issued.
The PoD program allows dealers to print temporary tags on standard white 8 ½ x 11 paper from their own printers.
The tags attach to the vehicle via a plastic sleeve. Some dealers are making the switch to printing PoD tags on a more durable weather resistant cardstock that is affixed to vehicles like permanent plates rather than in a plastic sleeve.
Law enforcement should be aware that temporary tags are now in three different formats: cardboard red tags, PoD tags in a plastic sleeve and PoD tags on weather resistant paper stock.
The PoD tags printed on weather resistant stock look the same as the standard paper PoD tags displaying vehicle information and the issuing dealer’s name. The temporary registration card prints on the same sheet and is torn off along the perforated edge and given to the customer.
Unlike the cardboard temporary tags, law enforcement look up PoD tag numbers in the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) to access vehicle and owner information and get an immediate response just like checking information on a permanent plate.
For more information about PoD, visit www.dmvNOW.com and click on Commercial Services and then Dealer Services or contact the Print on Demand Help Desk at (804) 367-1474 or {encode=podtemptag@dmv.virginia.gov).
Asian American Group Reaches Out to Law Enforcement
August 17, 2011 | Virginia News
More than a year after Vanessa Pham's murder, group hosts event to discuss issues facing Virginia's Asian American population
As Fairfax County Police continue to search for clues that could help them solve 19-year-old Vanessa Pham's murder, an area Vietnamese American organization is trying to raise awareness about the case to encourage those who may know what happened to step forward.
On Saturday, police and the Vietnamese American population gathered for the first-ever Asian American Advocacy and Resource Day, which brought some of the top leaders in Virginia’s Asian American community to the Fairfax Government Center to promote crime prevention and unity amongst Fairfax County’s largest minority population.
The event was hosted by the Voice of Vietnamese Americans, a Virginia-based non profit organization that aims to empower Vietnamese Americans by promoting civic engagement in their communities.
More than half a dozen elected officials – including Virginia State Sen. Janet Howell, Virginia State Del. Vivian Watts, the office of U.S. Sen. Mark Warner, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova, Supervisors Penelope Gross, John Foust and John Cook –discussed crime, redistricting and education, among other issues, with the county's Asian-American population.
Vanessa Pham, a Falls Church resident, was one of seven Asian Americans murdered in Virginia in 2010, according to Virginia State Police.
During his presentation about public safety and crime prevention, Vietnamese American Tony Pham (no relation to Vanessa Pham), General Counsel of the Richmond City Sherriff’s office, said violent crimes in which victims were Asian Americans continue to rise in Virginia, while they are decreasing throughout the rest of the country.
He said 939 Asian Americans were victims of murder, rape, assault, burglary and robbery in 2010.
“I’m hoping that community leaders that are here today get an opportunity to take the knowledge given by these presenters and share that information with your individual respective communities,” Pham said. “This is an opportunity to bridge that gap of communication between law enforcement and the general community that is desperately needed.”
It's been just more than a year since Vanessa Pham was mysteriously murdered, her body and car discarded on the side of Arlington Boulevard. On Saturday, Detective Robert Bond gave a presentation about her murder case, with a chronological timeline of the James Madison High School graduate's whereabouts that day. He hoped someone in attendance would recall something from that day, or, pass the information on to another person who could.
“As far as our investigation, what we know at this point is that surveillance captured Vanessa coming into the shopping center and leaving the shopping center,” Bond said. “It doesn’t capture anybody attacking Vanessa, however all of our evidence suggests that the attack was initiated in the shopping center and that the suspect got into her car with her and forced her to drive to a location where she was eventually killed.”
At the event, VVA also provided voter registration, employment resources, and information about health care and higher education for those in attendance.
“The Vietnamese community is growing and it is developing into a strong collective voice right now in Virginia,” said Vel Hernandez, a graduate student at American University and volunteer for VVA who helped organize the event. “For very long, Vietnamese have immigrated here, and now with higher education rates and Vietnamese working in so many different sectors, people are saying, ‘What can I do to give back to the community?’ VVA is helping those who want to give back and want to help the community.”
Hernandez said she hopes the day becomes an annual event.
“We had 60 to 75 people come out today, but maybe next year 200 or even more,” she said. “VVA is really just here to give back to the community and advocate for the issues that are important to Vietnamese.”
Source: Falls Church Patch
Law enforcement agencies struggle to replace legendary Crown Victoria fleet
August 17, 2011 | National News
AUGUSTA, Maine — For two decades, the basic patrol vehicle of law enforcement agencies across the state has been the Ford Crown Victoria police interceptor, but the last one rolls off the assembly line next month, and agencies are scrambling to find a new vehicle. They have found all of the options are more expensive.
Crown Victorias “served us really well,” Penobscot County Sheriff Glenn Ross said. “We are watching to see what is coming out, but we will not be the first to buy. We are good for the short term.”
Ross, president of the Maine Sheriffs’ Association, said all of law enforcement is struggling to replace a vehicle big enough to handle all of the additional equipment needed in a police cruiser that can be maintained with reasonable costs. He said the typical cruiser will have communications equipment, both a radio and a data terminal and lots of other gear.
“We also, in a rural area like this county, carry a lot of equipment we might need, and that pretty much fills the trunk,” Ross said. “We all really look at what it costs to keep a vehicle on the road, fuel efficiency, what it needs for routine maintenance.”
That, he said, is where agencies are left guessing, because all of the potential replacement vehicles have no track record. Ford is offering its Ford Police Interceptor based on its Taurus model. Chevrolet is offering an Australian-made version of the Caprice, different from the one made in the United States. Chrysler is offering a version of the Dodge Charger. A startup company, Indiana-based Carbon Motors, is offering a diesel-powered police car that is drawing some interest.
Nationally, about 75,000 vehicles a year are purchased by law enforcement, and about two-thirds of them have been Crown Victorias. Agencies also buy specialized vehicles for undercover work, and four-wheel-drive pickups are used by many rural agencies.
“We have looked at what is out there and we are looking at the Dodge Charger,” said South Portland Police Chief Ed Googins, president of the Maine Chiefs of Police Association. “We like their construction, the full frame is safer, and it is the only one out there that is full-frame like the Crown Vic.”
He said it is also a rear-wheel-drive vehicle and that should mean better gas mileage and lower maintenance costs. He agrees with Ross that a “big unknown” is the cost to maintain the vehicles, a concern for police agencies facing flat or reduced budgets.
All are concerned about cost. A basic Crown Victoria has been selling for around $25,000. Police agencies are looking at vehicles in the $28,000-$30,000 range as replacement patrol cars.
“Cost is going to be a big consideration for a lot of departments,” Ross said.
Governor McDonnell Signs “Ashley’s Law”
July 27, 2011 | Virginia News
Law requires emergency vehicles proceeding through a traffic intersection to flash emergency lights and either sound a siren or horn, or yield the right-of-way, before proceeding
ALEXANDRIA – Governor Bob McDonnell today ceremonially signed SB 762, also known as "Ashley's Law," which requires emergency vehicles proceeding through a traffic intersection to flash emergency lights and either sound a siren or horn, or yield the right-of-way, before proceeding. This law is named in honor of Ashley McIntosh who was tragically killed in 2008 when her vehicle was struck by an emergency vehicle as it went through an intersection. The legislation was signed during an afternoon ceremony at Sherwood Regional Library in Alexandria.
Speaking about "Ashley's Law," Governor McDonnell remarked, "It is a sobering moment as I sign this legislation today that results from a tragic traffic accident that took the life of a young Fairfax woman with a bright future. We are constantly evaluating how we can improve public safety to protect our citizens, law enforcement and first responders. It is because of the care, concern and activism of Ashley's family and friends that this change in the law has become a reality, and for that I commend the great work of everyone who advocated for the passage of this bill. Virginia's streets are safer because of 'Ashley's Law.'"
Senator Toddy Puller (D-Fairfax County), who patroned the legislation, commented, "I am very pleased to have carried 'Ashley's Law.' It took several years to get this passed and I am glad we were finally able to get overwhelming consensus on the bill. I hope that it will go far to save other lives in the future."
Fairfax County Police Department Chief of Police Colonel David M. Rohrer, added, "The Fairfax County Police Department supported 'Ashley's Law' because it puts the safety of the public and emergency responders first, as it should be. I'm pleased to say that our policies and the training our officers receive in emergency and response driving mirror this new law."
About "Ashley's Law":
SB 762 (Puller) – Emergency vehicles; proceeding past red lights
Provides that emergency vehicles proceeding past any steady or flashing red signals, traffic lights, stop signs, or other devices indicating moving traffic shall stop, must flash emergency lights and either (i) sound a siren, exhaust whistle, or air horn designed to give automatically intermittent signals or (ii) yield right-of-way or, if required for safety, bring the vehicle to a complete stop before proceeding with due regard to the safety of persons and property.
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SB762 amends and reenacts § 46.2-920 of the Code of Virginia, relating to emergency vehicles proceeding past steady or flashing red signals, traffic lights, stop signs, or other devices indicating moving traffic shall stop. Click here to download the pages pertaining to SB762 from the VSP's Selected Acts of the 2011 General Assembly (PDF)
Leadership in law enforcement: A cautionary tale
July 25, 2011 | Virginia News
When one Chief's career was undone with one utterly uncharacteristic action, he began working toward teaching his otherwise winning combination of vision and execution
At very young ages, children often fantasize about what they want to do when they “grow up.” Often those dreams are far afield from what they wind up doing in life. However, for retired Alexandria Virginia Police Chief David P. Baker, who wanted to be a police officer since he was a kid, his dream became reality when he joined the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D. C. as a patrol officer in September 1970. He progressed through the ranks at a steady pace and left the department after 21 years to become the Executive Deputy Chief of the Alexandria Virginia Police Department.
Baker was second in command from February 1991 to September 2006. When Chief Charles Samarra retired, Baker was chosen as the department’s top cop to lead a department then comprised of 320 sworn officers and 125 civilian employees. At the time, the agency had a budget of 55 million dollars and was the largest department and budget within the city of Alexandria, Virginia.
Soon after being selected as Chief of the department, Baker said, “My focus will be to improve and enhance our analytical and strategic capabilities so that our policing strategies, problem-solving capabilities, and deployment decisions are fact-based, consistent and capable of responding aggressively and effectively to new or existing crime and quality of life issues.”
Visible Leader
Baker, whose earned reputation was one of a highly-respected law enforcement professional, was known to be a proactive and involved leader in the law enforcement arena.
Baker always believed that the ways to garner respect from officers on the street is for them to recognize that the leader understands them, respects what they do, and runs a department that extends beyond lip service. The Chief, in his view, needs to lead a department that does what is good for officers on the street; the same philosophy holds for commanders even though there may be more latitude with command staff. He supported middle managers and commanders but, at the same time, he let cops on the street know he cared.
Baker was a visible leader. He was on the street and in the trenches, and he always stayed actively engaged with his troops. He talked to his officers, and his conversations were not solely about police business. “At a lot of levels, I cared about them,” Baker said.
A down-to-earth individual and easily approachable, he was known for his personal touch. If one of his officers or employees had a birth or death in the family or received a promotion, the Chief would write a hand-written note to the individual. “The manner in which you do your business, you have to convey real feeling and real emotions--much like family and friends,” Baker said.
He also recognized that it is important to develop and administer a disciplinary process that the rank and file deem fair. “He didn’t just impose things. He knew how to take input from people. It showed mutual respect, and he really cared what the guys/gals think. He really did care,” said Sgt. Michael Kochis, the former President of the Alexandria Virginia chapter of the Police Benevolent Association (PBA). Sgt. Kochis indicated Baker wanted input to know if discipline was considered fair, not too harsh, and he wanted to be made aware of other concerns surrounding it.
Baker recognized that an integral component of being an effective leader and running a progressive police department depended on building relationships. He understood the importance of creating a mechanism to hear what the rank and file needed and to attempt to get it for them and, on the other hand, a mechanism in which to let them know that it was unattainable. Successful chiefs master the decision-making process so that, in the end, when a decision is made, there is inclusion and it has been made collectively. As Chief of Police, Baker did that.
At one point, when Baker had the foresight to realize the Alexandria City Council was likely going to diminish the number of take-home cars available to his officers, he proactively worked with his staff to review the number of vehicles and to devise a solution acceptable to his troops and yet workable with the City Council. In a forthright manner, Baker was able to explain to his department the need to reduce the number of take-home cars yet indicated he would fight to keep as many as possible to meet departmental needs.
Before the Council approached him with the issue that he saw coming, Baker came forward and suggested to the Council a reduction of a reasonable number of take-home cars based on his departmental analysis. The Council found it acceptable, and the troops appreciated Baker’s honest communication and approach. Both sides were content and Baker had averted a potential conflict that could have evolved.
“I’ve had others tell me that when he became chief, they liked how issues were resolved quickly. They did not disappear into an abyss or languish unnecessarily. I recall that, too, when I was there. People always knew where they stood with him, and he always made time for subordinates when they had suggestions or issues to discuss,” Dennis Butler, Chief of the Ottawa Kansas Police Department and Retired Captain of the Alexandria Virginia Police Department, said.
As a leader, Baker understood that the relationship with his cops was paramount. Though he also knew the relationships with political leadership and the community was also vital, he grasped the significance of relationships with the troops. “You want your cops to follow you into battle under any crises,” Baker said.
Baker has always been a “cop’s cop” and he has never forgotten where he came from. He also had the skill and enthusiasm to successfully run a police department. “At a lot of levels, I cared about them. It’s one thing to say that, it’s another to convey that in a way that they know,” Baker said. He was a firm believer in demonstrating he would stand up for his troops. “You make them proud of you and you of them,” he said.
A Shining Example
July 12, 2011 | Virginia News
Kansas Police Chief Dennis Butler (retired Captain, Alexandria PD) named alumnus of year by George Mason University
by Karen Bune
A graduate of George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., Chief Dennis Butler of the Ottawa Kansas Police Department had good reason to fly to Virginia on May 20, 2011 and be present at his alma mater. He was awarded the 2011 Alumnus of the Year Award.
The knowledge obtained as a result of his university education--he has a bachelor’s in the administration of justice and a master’s certificate in public administration--coupled with his 30 experience years in law enforcement have made a tremendous impact in the communities he has served. Prior to his move to Kansas, Chief Butler was employed by the Alexandria Virginia Police Department from 1979-2004 and achieved the rank of captain before retiring from the department. He also served as the public information officer for three years.
During his tenure in Alexandria and in his various roles, he had many proven accomplishments. Notably, he reduced the number of citizen complaints against officers through his emphasis on improved communications and service. He promoted community-policing initiatives and increased citizen satisfaction by working closely with local civic associations. He also initiated a city-wide government project to acquire and implement electronic document imaging technology with the goal of strengthening departmental efficiency while, at the same time, improving overall customer service.
Chief Butler also served as a full-time city council liaison who interacted with city officials and citizens at all public meetings. He established and hosted meetings regularly with members of the prosecutor’s office to address issues that compromised the successful prosecution of both criminal and traffic cases and which resulted in the enhancement of a computerized court scheduling program.
While employed in the Alexandria PD, showing initiative was common for Chief Butler. He initiated and supervised the complete automation of all field training daily observation along with weekly and monthly reports.
Following his retirement, he departed the nation’s capitol region and headed to Ottawa, Kan., where he became the chief of police. The rural and smaller area of Ottawa was a contrast to the larger city atmosphere of Alexandria and the surrounding metropolitan region. Upon his arrival there, however, he wasted no time in orienting himself to the community and learning what might be needed to assist the citizens of Ottawa for enhancement of their public safety.
Chief Butler quickly recognized that a focus on domestic violence was clearly lacking, and he took immediate steps to implement changes in that area. He overhauled the domestic violence investigative policies, required reports be taken, even if no arrests were made, and discouraged dual-arrests. His policy requires that officers on a scene contact an advocate to not only report the incident but to encourage the victim to immediately talk with one.
“Often, I encounter police officers who remain skeptical regarding the level of effort I recommend to investigate domestic violence-related cases. When this happens, I encourage them to remember several things about the situation they are dealing with. First, domestic violence victims are often difficult to help because of their reluctance to cooperate or follow through and we discuss other reasons why. Every cop I know said they become one to ‘help people.’ I suggest that ‘helping people,’ while admirable, should not be reserved for those that are the easiest to help or who want our help and should include those who are the most difficult to help—no matter what the reason. If this doesn’t seem to connect, I mention children in violent homes who have no choice in the matter and cite statistics about what can happen to them if their exposure to verbal and physical abuses continues. It’s very satisfying when I can see changes in officers’ attitudes and performance occur because then I know we are making progress and helping victims and children who need us,” Chief Butler says.
In 2005, Chief Butler obtained a two-year federal grant to create a joint domestic violence unit with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. A domestic violence coordinator was hired for the County Attorney and an advocate was hired for the domestic violence center.
Chief Butler began multi-disciplinary presentations at local high schools on the topics of domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. Chief Butler created a new stalking investigative policy for his jurisdiction that includes a warning letter that officers and detectives can serve on individuals who are beginning to exhibit signs of stalking behavior.
Chief Butler proactively participated in the governor’s sub-committee on domestic violence training, and a 40-hour instructor’s course was created to standardize training throughout Kansas. Occasionally, he teaches the course. The committee created formatted electronic polices that are able to be modified for local needs.
The chief was proactive in writing and applying for grants to assist his jurisdiction, and it wasn’t uncommon for him to be up late hours writing the grants himself. Successful in those endeavors, he obtained a two-year federal grant in 2009 from the Office On Violence Against Women (OVW) U. S. Department of Justice. It enabled the hiring of a domestic violence detective, an administrative assistant and a full-time clinician at the Elizabeth Layton Center, a mental health facility, to start a Batterers Intervention Program. It was up and running in one year and is currently serving 24 clients. In 2011, Chief Butler applied for a three-year OVW grant renewal to maintain police staffing from 2009 and to expand the Batterer Intervention Program to three additional counties.
Chief Butler’s proactive efforts in law enforcement have been exemplary throughout his career. They are an admirable reflection of his tenure in the Alexandria Virginia PD, as well as a result of the education he received at George Mason University. Armed with vast knowledge, skills and experience that he carried with him to Kansas, he has made tremendous inroads in the Midwest.
“While at Mason, Dennis Butler was an excellent scholar, but he did more than just help himself to a quality education. He worked hard to help other officers in his department get an excellent education, too. He did an outstanding job of coordinating Mason’s Cohort Program for the Alexandria Police Department. I’m not at all surprised that he continues to stand out in his career as a police chief in Ottawa, Kansas,” Dr. Stephen Mastrofski says.
“This award properly recognizes the continued achievements of an innovative and respected public safety professional. It also demonstrates the continued commitment to excellence through education by George Mason University. I congratulate them both,” Ret. Alexandria Virginia Police Chief David P. Baker says.
Chief Baker attended the GMU Award ceremony in support of Chief Butler.
A member of numerous professional organizations, Chief Butler has continued to keep pace with the criminal justice system through continued training and education. He’s been the recipient of other awards that include the 2008 Kansas DARE Officer’s Association President’s Award for best summer DARE camp in Kansas and the Kansas Attorney General’s 2007 Victim’s Rights Service Award for Law Enforcement.
As a recipient of the 2011 George Mason University Alumnus of the Year Award, Chief Butler continues to shine in the Ottawa Police Department and as a retired member of the Alexandria Virginia Police Department and an alumnus of George Mason University. The words of Maya Angelou aptly apply to him: “Shine on, shine on … the world needs more people like you.”
Source: LawOfficer.com -- http://www.lawofficer.com/article/leadership/shining-example
Virginia State Police Veteran Becomes First Woman Promoted to Rank of Major
July 8, 2011 | Virginia News
RICHMOND – With more than two decades of law enforcement experience, Captain Tracy S. Russillo is advancing to the rank of major and assumes the deputy director position within the Department’s Bureau of Administrative and Support Services (BASS). Russillo’s promotion, which is effective July 10, 2011, makes her the highest-ranking female in the Department’s 79-year history. She replaces Major Robert L. Tavenner who retired last month.
“Tracy Russillo has proven to be an effective, skillful and respected leader within the Department,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “Her extensive field and management experience exemplifies the qualities needed in the position she is about to lead. Tracy’s hard work and dedication will be of great benefit to the Department as it continues to advance its public safety role in this new decade.”
A native of Fredericksburg, Russillo joined the state police May 16, 1989. After graduation from the state police academy, she was assigned to patrol in Spotsylvania County for six years and then an additional two years in Culpeper County.
During the last 22 years of her career, Captain Russillo has moved through the ranks of state police serving as an academy sergeant, area commander in Winchester and field lieutenant for the Culpeper Division. For the last three years, she has overseen the day-to-day operations in the Northern Virginia region as the Department’s Fairfax Division Commander.
Russillo holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from George Mason University and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Criminal Justice Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has also attended the “Institute for Leadership in Changing Times” at Virginia Tech’s Pamplin School of Business and the School of Police Staff and Command at Northwestern University.
She is currently pursuing an M.A. in Homeland Security at the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security.
The Bureau of Administrative and Support Services (BASS) consists of civilian personnel as well as sworn members. The bureau includes a director and deputy director and houses the divisions of Communications, Criminal Justice Information Services, Information Technology, Personnel, Property and Finance, Training, and the Statewide Agencies Radio System (STARS) program. Employees who work within this bureau provide essential services through their technical and professional expertise in order to assist troopers and special agents in the field.
Robert Foley Named Special Agent in Charge of Administrative Division at FBI Washington Field Office
July 5, 2011 | National News
Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Robert. D. Foley special agent in charge of the Administrative Division at the FBI Washington Field Office. Mr. Foley most recently served as section chief of the Employee Development and Selection Program, Human Resources Division, at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ).
Mr. Foley entered on duty as an FBI agent in September 1996 and was assigned to the Bridgeport Resident Agency, New Haven Division. While in Bridgeport, he investigated gangs and narcotics matters. He was also a member of the New Haven Division SWAT team and served as a firearms instructor. Mr. Foley transferred to the San Juan Division in 1999, where he investigated police corruption, gangs, and narcotics crimes.
In 2003, he was promoted to supervisory special agent at FBIHQ and served as an agent attorney in the Office of General Counsel, then worked in the Criminal Investigative Division’s Public Corruption Unit. In 2005, he transferred to the Tucson Resident Agency, Phoenix Division, as a supervisory special agent.
Shortly after, he was appointed as senior supervisory resident agent of the Yuma and Lake Havasu Resident Agencies. In this position, he supervised all FBI investigative programs, primarily counterterrorism matters, public corruption, and Indian Country crimes.
In 2007, Mr. Foley returned to FBIHQ as unit chief of the transfer unit, Human Resources Division. In 2008, he was promoted to assistant special agent in charge of the Louisville Division’s Criminal Branch, eight resident agencies, and the administrative program. In 2009, Mr. Foley was appointed in the senior executive service and returned to FBIHQ as section chief of the Customer Service Section, Human Resources Division.
Mr. Foley is from Massachusetts and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rhode Island College. He received a Master of Science in business administration from Boston University and a Juris Doctor from the New England School of Law. Mr. Foley is licensed to practice in Massachusetts. Prior to the FBI, he served in the U.S. Army as an aviator. He is married and has a daughter.
Fairfax Police Veteran Named Middleburg Chief
July 1, 2011 | Virginia News
William F. Klugh will take over as the Middleburg Chief of Police effective Aug. 1. He will replace Steve Webber, whose retirement was effective Tuesday.
Klugh is the deputy chief of police for the City of Fairfax Police Department and has served in nearly every assignment for that department during his 27 years with the force.
In announcing the selection by the Middleburg Town Council, the town stated that Klugh’s experience with the community-oriented service demonstrated by the Fairfax department would benefit Middleburg. Klugh is credited with developing the City of Fairfax’s community policing teams model as a patrol commander in the 1990s. He is a graduate of James Madison University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. He also graduated of the FBI National Academy.
Klugh was selected from among more than 40 applicants for the post.
In addition to his experience with community policing, the council was impressed by his management, budgeting and grant-writing knowledge.
Following Webber’s retirement, Senior Police Officer Mike Prince will serve as acting chief in the interim.
FTC Facts for Consumers: Warning About Home Alarm Sales Scams
June 30, 2011 | National News
Knock, Knock. Who's There?
Want to Buy a Home Security System?
Beware of home alarm sales scams.
Everyone wants to feel safe in their home, so when home security salespeople come knocking, their pitch can be convincing. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, and your state Attorney General urge you to use caution when you consider what security system sales agents have to offer.
During the spring and summer months, home security or alarm companies hire traveling sales agents to go door-to-door, making unsolicited "cold calls" on homeowners. In some cases, the salespeople use high-pressure or deceptive sales tactics to get potential customers to buy expensive, and sometimes substandard, systems or equipment they don't need.
Before you let anyone inside your home, ask for identification. Some state laws require door-to-door salespeople to tell you their name, the name of the business they represent, and the goods or services they wish to sell before asking you any questions or making any statements. Other states require salespeople to show you their "pocket card" license and a photo ID. Take a few minutes to look over their documentation.
Signs of a Security System Scam
Unscrupulous door-to-door sales agents use a variety of approaches and pitches to get you to buy an alarm system and monitoring services. Here's what to look out for:
- They may make a time-limited offer, and claim that you need to act now. For example, they may try to get you to sign a contract by telling you that the equipment is "free." More than likely, strings are attached. For example, to get your "free" alarm, you may have to sign a long-term and expensive system monitoring contract.
- They may pressure their way into your home and then refuse to leave. It is not impolite or rude to tell a salesperson you're not interested. It's much easier — and safer — to say "no" on the doorstep than to try to get the salesperson to leave once they're inside. If a salesperson continues to pressure you after you've asked them to leave, call the police.
- They may use scare tactics. For example, they may talk about a rash of supposed burglaries in your neighborhood.
Some door-to-door sales agents target homeowners who have signs on their properties for security systems with other companies. In these cases:
- The sales agents may state or imply that they are from your existing security company and that they're there to "upgrade" or "replace" your current security system. Once inside your home, however, they may install a new security system and have you sign papers that include a costly contract for the monitoring service.
- They may claim your security company has gone out of business, that they've taken over the accounts, and that you have to buy new equipment and sign new contracts. If this happens, call your current monitoring company to confirm. Normally, you would be notified of a change like this by mail or telephone, not by an unannounced visit by a representative from another company.
Before you do business with anyone selling a home security or alarm system, whether they come to your door or you seek them out, the FTC and your state Attorney General urge you to ask potential contractors for the following information. Use it to check out the alarm company with the appropriate authorities: your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org), and state licensing officials (www.nascla.org). If the salesperson is reluctant to give you this information, consider it a red flag and find another company to consider.
- Contractor's name
- Street address (no P.O. Box)
- Telephone number
- Contractor's license number
- State that issued the license
- Name under which the license is filed
Buying a Home Security System
Home security systems are designed to protect you, your home, and your valuables. They vary in price and sophistication. Some systems not only can warn you of intruders, but also can notify authorities of a medical emergency, monitor smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and water levels or pressures, and include video surveillance. Some systems also are linked into your home's wiring, heating or lighting systems, and use your mobile phone or computer to control them.
Most home security alarm installers can provide all-inclusive services that include equipment plus the installation and monitoring service.
If you're thinking about buying a home security system, the FTC and your state Attorney General suggest that you:
Get references from your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and from the company's current clients, and find out whether the equipment was installed within the given time frame. Were any equipment problems dealt with promptly? Was the system explained to everyone living in the home? If there was an intrusion, were the police contacted immediately?
Check out the companies by entering their names in a search engine online. Read about other people's experiences with the companies. Try to communicate offline if possible to clarify any details. In addition, contact your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) to see if any complaints are on file.
Verify that the contractor's licenses are current and in good standing. Check with the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (www.nascla.org) for the appropriate agency in your state.
Get written estimates from several companies, and ask plenty of questions. A reputable company will not try to sell you anything before completing a professional assessment of your needs and the layout of your home. Find out:
- Who will perform the installation and monitor the system? Some companies subcontract this work to a third party.
- What is the contract period for monitoring? One year? More? Are there penalties for early termination? What happens if you move before the contract term is up?
- How much does the monitoring cost? How often will you be billed?
- Does the company call you before notifying the police?
- How soon after the alarm sounds will you be notified?
- What happens if the alarm company can't reach you when the alarm is sounding? Is the alarm reset? Are the police called? Are alternate numbers called?
- What happens if the power goes out? Is there a back-up battery system?
- What does the warranty cover, and for how long? Is it from the manufacturer or their installer?
- Who is responsible for repairs or upgrades to the system?
- Does the company offer interactive services like smoke and fire detection, remote control, video surveillance, email notifications and special apps for smart phones?
Read the fine print. Once you've chosen a company, make sure the written contract includes all oral promises made by the salesperson. Your contract package should include:
- Installation price
- Monthly or quarterly monitoring fee
- Contract period
- Applicable discounts
- A written warranty
- The owner's manual
- An explanation of your right to cancel the deal
- Cancellation forms
The contract also must be dated, and show the name and address of the seller.
Contact your police and fire departments. Ask whether you need to register your system, and if there are fines for responding to false alarms.
Understand that you can cancel the deal. The FTC's Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel the deal if you sign the contract in your home or at a location that is not the seller's permanent place of business. You do not have to give a reason for canceling your purchase. You have a right to change your mind, even if the equipment has already been installed.
The salesperson must give you two copies of a cancellation form (one to keep and one to send back) and a copy of your contract. The contract must be dated, show the name and address of the seller, and explain your right to cancel. You may have additional consumer protections under state law. Check with your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), or the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org)
For More Information
- National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association — www.alarm.org
- Security Industry Alarm Coalition — www.siacinc.org
The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and avoid them. To file a complaint or get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. Watch a video, How to File a Complaint, at ftc.gov/video to learn more. The FTC enters consumer complaints into the Consumer Sentinel Network, a secure online database and investigative tool used by hundreds of civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.
Link to Warning on FTC web site | Download Warning as PDF
New chief hired for Saltville Police Department
June 25, 2011 | Virginia News
Rob Hall is returning to his native state as he begins next month as chief of Saltville’s police department.
Reached “amid boxes” in Twisp, Wash., where it was just after 10 a.m. Thursday, Hall was packing for the long drive from the northwest. Depending on how the trip goes, he anticipates being on the job July 15.
Saltville officials announced last week Hall’s succession of Steve Sturber, who retired after 35 years in the Saltville Police Department.
In a press release, Town Manager Mike Taylor said the “lengthy process was successfully completed by the Saltville Police-Fire-Rescue Committee to insure the correct choice and recommendation was delivered to the council for its consideration. Chairperson Vince Maiden who is also an elected Councilperson wanted a screening process that was fair to all parties, and to insure professionalism and integrity were the key words in this process.”
Chief Rob Hall grew up on the Civil War battlefield of Salem Church in Spotsylvania County. “He put himself through college by washing dishes, making pizzas, working security and building interstate highways, among other things,” the release said.
Hall holds a degree in Applied Arts and a Master of Arts from the University of Connecticut and a second master’s from the University of New Orleans.
He taught for 11 years on the secondary and college levels until he left education to write freelance and pursue a career in law enforcement. Hall is a regular contributor to PoliceOne.com, and author of “Rape in America: A Reference Handbook” (ABC/CLIO).
Taylor said in the release the council’s 6-0 vote to hire Hall “illustrates a full measure of confidence and trust in him.”
Hall acknowledged the appointment comes with challenges in improving the public’s perception of the Saltville department.
“There is an image problem,” Hall said, one he said he learned about before he interviewed for the job.
“One of the things I did was to come to Saltville a couple of days early,” Hall said. “I took a day and a half going around town, talking to people and trying to get their feedback about the police department and the town. There is a significant portion of the population, from what little contact I had—there is an image problem and a fair amount of skepticism. I understand that. That’s a logical outcome for the circumstances.”
Virginia State Trooper Killed in Traffic Crash
June 24, 2011 | Virginia News
The Virginia State Police are mourning the loss of one of their own. Trooper Adam M. Bowen, 28, of Warsaw, Va., was killed instantly during a two-vehicle traffic crash Friday evening (June 24, 2011) in King George County.
Funeral Arrangements are as follows:
Visitation
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Washington and Lee High School
16380 Kings Highway (Route 3)
Montross (Westmoreland County), VA 22520
Funeral Service
Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at Washington and Lee High School.
Graveside Service
A graveside service will immediately follow the funeral service.
Rappahannock Baptist Church
9981 Newland Road
Warsaw, VA 22572
Reception
A reception, hosted by the Virginia State Police Association, will immediately follow the graveside service at Washington and Lee High School.
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At approximately 6:45 p.m. Friday (June 24, 2011), Trooper Bowen was responding to a call to assist a state police agent. The trooper was traveling westbound on Route 3/Kings Highway. As the trooper entered the intersection of Route 3 and Madison Drive, his marked Ford Crown Victoria patrol car collided with an eastbound Hyundai Elantra.
The impact forced the patrol car to run off the road and strike the traffic light pole. The patrol car split in half and the front end continued into a nearby parking lot where it struck three parked cars. Trooper Bowen died at the scene. He was wearing a seat belt.
“The tragic and sudden death of Trooper Bowen is a tremendous loss to his Virginia State Police family and King George County,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Adam’s family, friends, and fellow troopers during this difficult time.”
The driver and a passenger in the Elantra suffered minor injuries in the crash. They were both transported by ambulance to Mary Washington Hospital in Fredericksburg.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, which is being conducted by the Virginia State Police Accident Reconstruction Team. The state police is appreciative for the assistance of the King George County Sheriff’s Office and King George County Fire and EMS at the scene Friday night.
Trooper Bowen is a graduate of the 114th Basic Session. He graduated July 3, 2008, from the Virginia State Police Academy. Since graduation, he has been assigned to the Area 44 Office, which includes King George and Caroline counties. Prior to joining the state police, Trooper Bowen spent five years with the U.S. Air Force National Guard. He served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Trooper Bowen, a native of Warsaw, Va., is survived by a fiancé and his parents.
The VACP requests that Virginia law enforcement shroud badges in memory of Trooper Bowen through the day of his funeral — Tuesday, June 28.
U.S. budget cuts cost state, localities $9 million in security grants
June 22, 2011 | Virginia News
The state and local governments lost $9 million in federal homeland security grants this year because of federal spending cuts, Secretary of Veterans Affairs & Homeland Security Terrie L. Suit said today.
In a briefing with reporters about agencies in her secretariat, Suit said the grants were cut from $18 million to $9 million. Central Virginia funding was cut entirely, she said.
Lack of troopers impacts Virginia State Police
June 22, 2011 | Virginia News
In Southwest Virginia, troopers are operating with about 16 percent fewer sworn officers than the area is allotted. That means, about 20 fewer officers patrolling the highways than there were 20 or 30 years ago.
On Friday, 62 new Virginia State Police troopers are set to graduate from the police academy in Richmond, Va. By Monday, another set of fresh-faced young recruits will take their places, to spend 36 weeks learning and practicing for their time in the field.
But even with 50 to 60 new troopers in every graduating class, it is barely enough for the state police to maintain their current numbers, now at a deficit of about 280 officers, Lt. J. Ed Murphy said.
“What’s happened is … we’ve been under budget restraints like everybody else,” he said. “We’ve not hired enough people to make up for people lost through attrition, retirement and leaving for other agencies. Our main resources are people.”
And people are harder to cut than other “fluff” items that might be found in other government agency budgets, he said.
In Southwest Virginia, troopers are operating with about 16 percent fewer sworn officers than the area is allotted, Sgt. Michael Conroy said. That means, about 20 fewer officers patrolling the highways than there were 20 or 30 years ago.
“The problem is, if you take 20 troopers from Southwest Virginia the impact is greater because we don’t have that many people assigned to any given area,” Murphy said.
When Master Trooper Roy Owens started his career in Washington County, Va., 35 years ago, there were 15 troopers working in the county. Now, there are 13.
“And traffic has probably tripled, the population has probably doubled” in that time, Owens said. “We’re shorthanded. There are more calls and fewer people answering calls.”
Because the Virginia State Police is a full-service agency, troopers are expected to do more than cruise up and down the Interstate, distributing tickets. In addition to patrolling I-81, they report to wrecks in the county – and go to the hospital with injured people, register and keep tabs on sex offenders, keep an eye out for cyber crimes and conduct investigations with local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and other agencies.
“In the 1980s they did a manpower study. … [I’m] sure if they did one today they’d be allotted more than 15 troopers,” Owens said. “They [troopers] work any wreck unless it’s on the city of Bristol, town of Damascus or Glade, Abingdon … everything else the state works.”
ODU Police Chief Rudolph Burwell retires
June 22, 2011 | Virginia News
Burwell spent 30 years with Norfolk police before joining ODU in 2003 as an assistant chief. He was named chief in 2008.
George Votava, a former Norfolk police officer and assistant chief at ODU, is now interim ODU police chief, a university spokeswoman said.
Shawn Walker Named ABC Bureau of Law Enforcement Director of Field Operations
June 20, 2011 | Virginia News
RICHMOND – The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) recently designated Shawn Walker as Director of Field Operations for ABC’s Bureau of Law Enforcement. Walker is responsible for field investigations, industry compliance, training and education.
Walker has been with ABC for 17 years and served in many facets of the Bureau of Law Enforcement. Prior to his current position, Walker served as ABC's deputy director of field operations from 2004-2010, and before that was ABC's special agent in charge of education, training and industry matters. He first served with ABC as a special agent in the Chesapeake Regional Office.
Walker began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer with the Old Dominion University Police Department in Norfolk. He earned a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University in 1991, and an MBA from Averett University in Danville in 2009. He is a graduate of: the 224th session of the FBI National Academy, the Police Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond, and the Commonwealth Management Institute at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Walker oversees approximately 100 special agents statewide whose diverse duties include: enforcing ABC laws in nearly 16,000 licensed establishments—with an emphasis on preventing sales to underage and intoxicated individuals, promoting voluntary compliance through innovative education programs and community partnerships; and initiating and participating in state, local and federal investigations involving crimes such as illegal liquor manufacturing, drug trafficking, tax evasion and gambling.
“I am excited and very proud to embark on the next phase of my career working alongside the exceptional group of professional colleagues we have here in the Bureau. It is our goal to serve the citizens and businesses of the Commonwealth with pride and integrity while promoting public safety and enhancing quality of life,” Walker stated.
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Web: www.abc.virginia.gov
Facebook: Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Twitter: @VirginiaABC
YouTube: www.youtube.com/vaabc
Police urged to use caution with social media
June 13, 2011 | Virginia News
Following an adrenaline-packed foot pursuit that led to an arrest, a Smithfield police officer went home and posted on his Facebook page about how much fun he had that night.
The post included nothing disparaging. But a town council member who was the officer's Facebook friend saw the post and complained that it was inappropriate, Police Chief Mark Marshall said.
"Needless to say, there was some counseling that was done. That remark, obviously, was taken off, and I believe the council member was unfriended at that point. But nonetheless, that's when we knew we needed to have a policy," Marshall said.
Smithfield police - like other police departments in Hampton Roads - have created policies governing the way officers should use social networks, warning them to exercisecaution when posting online to ensure they don't harm the reputation of their department or get themselves in trouble.
Posting inappropriate comments or photos is a problem nationally for police, some of whom have been disciplined or fired. In Hampton Roads, Facebook posts by Portsmouth police Officer Stephen D. Rankin are being reviewed.
On April 23, after being dispatched to a reported burglary, Rankin shot Kirill Denyakin, who was drunk, unarmed and banging loudly on the door of the apartment building where he had been living. Denyakin was hit 11 times after he allegedly charged at Rankin.
Rankin's Facebook postings, which were visible to The Virginian-Pilot and first publicized in a story last month, included images of weapons, a comment that he would rather be emptying his guns than cleaning them, a reference to a box of guns as his "box of vengeance," and an image of a man hanging from a noose.
Marshall is president of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, which offers guidance to police agencies in social media.
"The younger officers that are coming on, they all have these social media sites. They're either on Facebook or MySpace or something else, and they're posting stuff, and they're posting things that - if it was discovered or if somebody else saw it - it could have an impact on the reputation of the department and its operations," Marshall said.
Injured Buchanan County Deputy Returns Home
June 9, 2011 | Virginia News
Nearly three months ago a deadly shooting killed two sheriff's deputies and injured two more. Today, Deputy Shane Charles will return home for the first time since March 13.
It's a bittersweet day for the people of Buchanan County, Virginia. Their hearts are still heavy from losing Deputies Neil Justus and Billy Stiltner in March. But today, they're welcoming home Deputy Shane Charles with open arms.
Close to three months later, after several surgeries, rehabilitation and a lot of prayers Deputy Shane Charles and his crew made the trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Buchanan County, Virginia. Riding in his blue truck,Deputy Charles stopped in Bristol, Virginia and was greeted by a welcoming crowd, including about two dozen law enforcement officers from around the region.
Buchanan County, VA Sheriff Ray Foster says, "It means a lot to Shane and my office to see them and the support that keeps coming into my office."
Buchanan County Sheriff's Deputy Eric Rasnake, who was also injured in March 13th's shooting, was on hand to greet his best friend.
Sheriff Foster says, "Eric has been an inspiration to us, to the county and I'm really looking forward to seeing him and getting him home."
Rasnake says he hopes to return to work soon, while Charles realizes there's still some recovery ahead of him, but he'll be doing the rehabilitation with his family, friends and the community by his side, including some new friends from Georgia.
Cobb County, GA Detective Steven Gaynor says, "I love the man. He's like my brother or my son and we've been friends ever since that first day he got down there and I stayed with him the whole time."
Sheriff Ray Foster now wears a black and blue bracelet with the names of deputies Neal Justus and Billy Stiltner who died in the shootings.
Foster says his department is working to heal, but they've also realized through this tragedy what a strong group law enforcement is, "When you knit it together and hold together that big of a family, it's not just a line, it's a rope."
It's a tight-knit group that's going to be there to support Officer Shane Charles on his road to recovery.