2008 Virginia Law Enforcement Challenge Awards Announced
June 29, 2009 | VACP
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP) on August 10, 2009 will present the 2008 Virginia Law Enforcement Challenge awards for the best traffic safety programs in the state. The awards luncheon will be held during the VACP’s 84th Annual Training Conference at the Marriott City Center in Newport News, VA.
Celebrating its twentieth year in Virginia, the Law Enforcement Challenge program promotes professionalism in traffic safety enforcement and encourages agencies to share best practices and programs with each other. The awards are based on entries prepared by the participating agencies that highlight their traffic safety activities in the past calendar year.
The Virginia Challenge is held in cooperation with the National Law Enforcement Challenge Awards, presented by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). This year, fifty-one Virginia agencies entered the state and national competitions and forty-two will receive state awards. The list of Virginia Challenge winners is available at http://www.smartsafeandsober.org/programs/LEC/2008 . National Challenge award winners will be announced by the IACP on their web site at http://www.theiacp.org/NLEC.
In addition to the first, second and third place awards in each category, special awards for outstanding enforcement and education efforts in the areas of occupant protection, impaired driving, speed awareness, child passenger safety, underage alcohol awareness and many more will be announced at the luncheon. Additionally, awards will be announced for the best first-time entry, or “Rookie of the Year”, and for the most outstanding traffic safety program in Virginia in 2008 regardless of agency size or type, the Commonwealth Award.
The Virginia Law Enforcement Challenge Awards program is supported by a grant from the Virginia Highway Safety Office. Additional information about the Law Enforcement Challenge program can be found online at http://www.smartsafeandsober.org/programs/LEC .
New state laws take effect Wednesday
June 29, 2009 | Virginia News
New state laws that ban text messaging while driving and get tougher on drunken drivers take effect this week.
In a 46-day session, the General Assembly approved 879 bills, most of which take effect Wednesday.
The session will probably be best known for a measure prohibiting smoking in most restaurants and bars in Virginia. This measure will not take effect until Dec. 1 to give restaurant owners more time to prepare for the ban.
Here's a look at some highlights of laws that take effect this week:
Semifinalists Announced for 2009 IACP/Motorola Webber Seavey Awards for Quality in Law Enforcement
June 24, 2009 | National News
Two Virginia agencies make the cut: Richmond Police Department, for their project "GRIP - Gang Reduction and Intervention Program", and Purcellville Police Department, for their project "Engagement of our Community Youth"
Jointly sponsored by IACP and Motorola, the Webber Seavey Award is presented annually to agencies and departments worldwide in recognition for promoting a standard of excellence that exemplifies law enforcement's contribution and dedication to the quality of life in local communities.
This program helps law enforcement agencies worldwide and the communities they serve by redefining the concept of law enforcement and how it is routinely performed. The award is named for Webber S. Seavey, the IACP's first president.
The program annually honors achievements in one or more of the following goals:
- Continually improving services to the community;
- Strengthening police relations and promoting community participation;
- Effectively using resources;
- Enhancing communications within and cooperation among agencies;
- Developing creative and innovative approaches that promote excellence in law enforcement.
Complete list of semifinalists and additional information
‘Chief’s Kids’ Celebrate One-Year Anniversary
June 23, 2009 | Virginia News
BRISTOL, Va. – Thousands of bubbles rose up to the sky Monday night in the parking lot of Rice Terrace Apartments. They came from wands held in the sticky hands of members of "Chief’s Kids", a crew of children brought together every week by the Bristol Virginia Police Department and Hunt Memorial United Methodist Church.
The one-year anniversary of the start of the club was celebrated Monday. It is a pet project of city Police Chief Bill Price, who said he’s proud of the work the children have done. The aim is to teach kids in targeted neighborhoods about responsibility.
External Link to ArticleMove Over Twitter; Step Aside Facebook. Nixle is for Real.
June 20, 2009 | National News
New communications service has signed up nearly 1,000 agencies in just a few months and the National Sheriffs' Association is communicating with conference attendees via Nixle.
SAN FRANCISCO, June 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Nixle, the latest entrant into the field of instantaneous communications, is making rapid strides with police and municipal agencies nationwide - not to mention the thousands of citizens who have signed up to receive vital public safety messages.
Launched in March, Nixle counts nearly 1,000 cities in 46 states using or testing its system. Those cities include: Los Angeles, Baltimore, Virginia Beach, Chicago and Minneapolis. And prominent sheriffs' offices using Nixle include Oakland County (suburban Detroit), Napa County, Oklahoma County (Oklahoma City) and Santa Fe County.
Meantime, more than 30,000 residents of those cities have signed up to receive Nixle alerts - a total growing by the hundreds each day.
Nixle also is popular among many of the sheriffs and law enforcement personnel attending the National Sheriff's Association 2009 Annual Conference and, as a result, the association is using Nixle this year to communicate with conference attendees. More than 3,000 attendees from all fields of criminal justice are expected to be present at the conference, slated for June 20-24 in Fort Lauderdale. Janet Napolitano, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, is keynote speaker.
"It is an excellent service and I believe it is a great benefit to the community," said Sheriff David Goad, president of the National Sheriffs' Association.
"Any tool that helps us improve public safety is worth using," said Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel. "People rarely go anywhere these days without access to a cell phone or the Internet. With Nixle, we're always able to relay important information, thereby improving the community's quality of life."
Nixle should be on the lips of many attendees because this year's conference includes seminars that focus on technology, such as "Law Enforcement Information Sharing and Emerging Technology" and "Community Engagement and Trusted Communication to Residents."
Earlier this month, Nixle served as the lead sponsor at the U.S. Conference of Mayors. About 80 cities signed on with Nixle in the wake of that event.
"Nixle came out of a need for a direct communication tool for police and official agencies to reach their communities. Depending on the media is not enough, and social applications are far too dangerous to put out official information," said Craig Mitnick, Nixle founder and CEO. "Nixle is the first tool to allow for a secure and trusted communication platform for sheriffs' departments and official agencies throughout country to communicate time sensitive information in real time over cell phones, email and the Web."
About Nixle
Nixle is a community information service provider built exclusively to provide secure and reliable communications. It is the first authenticated and secure service that connects municipal agencies and community organizations to residents in real time, delivering information to geographically targeted consumers over their cell phones (via text messages), through e-mails and via Web access. Nixle has secured a partnership with Nlets (the International Justice and Public Safety Network), allowing local police departments nationwide to send immediate alerts and advisories. Privately funded Nixle, which has offices in New Jersey and California, is free to all governments, their agencies and organizations, nongovernmental organizations and consumers. For more information, visit www.nixle.com.
Guards Who Shot Back at Von Brunn Identified
June 12, 2009 | National News
The security guards who returned fire when a white supremacist allegedly gunned down their colleague at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum on Wednesday were a recently retired D.C. police officer and a former Marine, both of whom had worked at the museum only a few weeks.
Teresa Gooch new security director at St. Catherine’s
June 12, 2009 | Virginia News
Teresa P. Gooch, who twice served as Richmond's interim police chief, has been named director of security at St. Catherine's School.
Gooch ended a 26-year career with the Richmond Police Department with her retirement in 2005, shortly after the city hired Rodney Monroe as its police chief.
Prior to that, Gooch served as a deputy chief and twice assumed the role of interim chief, from January 2002 to August of that year, and again from December 2004 to February 2005.
Gooch will oversee all security measures and coordinate the crisis plan at St. Catherine's, an all-girls school in Richmond's West End.
New to elementary lesson plans: Gang prevention
June 11, 2009 | Virginia News
High schoolers in Chesapeake are referred to guidance counselors. Middle schoolers get the lesson in health class: how to spot gangs, what gangs do, and how to stay away.
Now Chesapeake wants to extend these lessons to elementary school students, and eventually even kindergartners.
Starting this fall, students in grades three to five will have gang prevention and awareness classes.
Security Guard Killed at U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
June 10, 2009 | National News
A lone gunman known to authorities as a white supremacist shot and fatally wounded a private security guard at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in downtown Washington today before being shot and wounded by guards who returned fire, officials said.
The wounded security guard and the gunman were both taken to George Washington University Hospital with serious injuries, police said.
Authorities later said the guard died in the hospital.
Former Lynchburg sheriff Lawrence Simpson dies at 77
June 10, 2009 | Virginia News
Simpson, who served as Lynchburg’s sheriff from 1974 to 2001, was a mentor to many in law enforcement in the Lynchburg area. The 77-year-old died Monday at the University of Virginia Medical Center.
Snead remembers the former sheriff as a man who made it a point to know his colleagues and the community.
Washington County Sheriff Seeks Position with U.S. Marshals Service
June 10, 2009 | Virginia News
There soon could be a new sheriff in Washington County, Va., because Sheriff Fred Newman is seeking a high-ranking spot with the U.S. Marshals Service.
If appointed, Newman would take over as U.S. marshal for the Western District of Virginia, becoming one of two head marshals in the state and among 94 in the country.
Virginia’s Western District, as set by U.S. law, encompasses the 54 counties that make up the two-thirds of the state west of Richmond, according to the U.S. Marshals’ Web site.
External Link to ArticleFairfax deputy police chief broke glass ceiling
June 10, 2009 | Virginia News
Women's power in force
Deputy Police Chief Suzanne Devlin is no stranger to battles. During her 33 years with the Fairfax County Police Department, she has traveled difficult paths toward success.
Greene County deputy killed in fiery crash Thursday
June 5, 2009 | Virginia News
Investigator Chadwick A. "Chad" Carr, 31, tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle accident on the afternoon of Thursday, June 4, 2009. Investigator Carr, while on duty and in his assigned vehicle, ran off the right side of the road on Rt. 230, then re-entered the roadway where he then collided with a truck traveling toward Stanardsville. Investigator Carr died of his injuries at the scene.
The VACP requests that Virginia law enforcement officers shroud their badges through the day of memorial services for Investigator Carr – Friday, June 12.
Inv. Carr had been in law enforcement for 7 ½ years, first as an animal control officer, then as a field Deputy. Chad was an instructor and enjoyed teaching at the law enforcement academy. Chad’s favorite assignment had been that of a K-9 handler, even though he hadn’t had a dog for a while, that passion never ended. Chad received the Lifesaving award this year for saving a man’s life utilizing CPR and the AED.
Inv. Carr had recently been promoted into Investigations and assigned to the Blue Ridge Narcotics Task Force as a narcotics enforcement officer, a job that he truly enjoyed and excelled at.
Chad was the father of two young boys, ages 7 and 3. The thoughts and prayers of the Greene County Sheriff’s Office go out to them and Chad’s family. The Sheriff’s Office will be establishing a fund for the children.
Chad had a great love of law enforcement work and will be greatly missed by his fellow workers.
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:
Funeral Home --
Currie Funeral Home
116 East Church Street
Kilmarnock, VA 22482 (Northumberland County)
(804) 435-1077 • Web Site – www.curriefuneralhome.net
Visitation at Funeral Home --
Thursday, June, 11, 2009, 6 P.M. to 8 P.M.
Funeral Service at Funeral Home --
Friday, June, 12, 2009, 1 P.M.
Graveside Service --
Friday, June 12, 2009, immediately following funeral service.
Location: Wicomico Church, located north of the town of Kilmarnock on Rt. 200 (Jessie Ball Dupont Memorial Hwy) at Rt. 609 (Brown Stone Road)
Directions to Wicomico Church:
- From Stanardsville take Rt. 20 North to Rt. 3 East to Fredericksburg to I-95 South to Exit 126 Rt. 1 South to Rt. 17 South to Tappahannock take Rt. 360 East to Rt. 3 East to Kilmarnock to Rt. 200 North.
- From Richmond take I 64 East to Rt. 33 North to Rt. 3 West to Rt. 200 North.
- From Fredericksburg take Rt.17 south to Rt. 360 East to Rt. 3 east to Rt. 200 North.
Chadwick Carr Memorial Fund
Chesapeake Bank
P. O. Box 1419
Kilmarnock, VA 22482
NEWS COVERAGE:
FBI Releases Preliminary Annual Crime Statistics for 2008
June 2, 2009 | National News
According to the FBI's Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report released June 1, the nation experienced a 2.5 percent decrease in the number of violent crimes and a 1.6 percent decline in the number of property crimes for 2008 compared with data from 2007.
The report is based on information that the FBI gathered from 12,750 law enforcement agencies that submitted six to 12 comparable months of data to the FBI for both 2007 and 2008.
Violent Crime
Property Crime
Arson
The complete Preliminary Annual Uniform Crime Report is available exclusively at www.fbi.gov/ucr/ucr.htm.
Chesapeake officer’s shooting shuts down interstate
June 2, 2009 | Virginia News
A man abducted and shoved into a van just before a police shootout in Chesapeake apparently was dead in the vehicle before the shooting began.
Sean Fleming, 26, the police officer who was shot, was airlifted to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and was in stable condition. Officials released his name at a 3 p.m. press conference today, and said he graduated from the Chesapeake Police Academy in August 2008.
Prosecutors seeking death for accused killer of Virginia Beach detective
June 2, 2009 | Virginia News
The decision was revealed in Circuit Court today, shortly before prosecutors and defense attorneys for Ted Vincent Carter chose Jan. 26 as the start date for the trial. It is expected to take two or three weeks.
Carter, 24, has been jailed without bond since his arrest late Aug. 7, moments after Detective Michael Smith Phillips was fatally shot during an undercover drug buy. Carter is charged with capital murder, first-degree murder, use of a firearm in a felony, robbery, possession of a sawed-off shotgun and conspiracy to distribute drugs.
Deadline extended for JAG Program funding under the Recovery Act of 2009
May 26, 2009 | National News
The Recovery Act Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Formula Program: Local Solicitation deadline has been extended. The new application deadline is 8:00 p.m. ET on June 17, 2009.
The Bureau of Justice Assistance, a component of the Department of Justice's Office of Justice Programs (OJP), established the previous deadline of May 18 to encourage early submission of applications in an effort to provide economic stimulus as soon as possible. Because this is a non-competitive formula grant program, the extension of this deadline does not impact either eligibility or funding determinations.
Click here for additional information on the Recovery Act JAG Program Funding
Regular FY2009 JAG Program Funding applications are due by June 25, 2009 for state agencies and by July 9, 2009 for local law enforcement.
Click here for additional information on FY2009 JAG Program Funding
Obama names Sotomayor as Supreme Court nominee
May 26, 2009 | National News
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Obama has chosen federal Judge Sonia Sotomayor as his nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court, two sources told CNN on Tuesday.
Sotomayor would be the first Hispanic and third female U.S. Supreme Court justice if confirmed.
Governor Kaine Announces Grants to Establish Crisis Intervention Teams
May 20, 2009 | Virginia News
Five grants to help localities create teams of law enforcement officer and mental health professionals
RICHMOND — Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced May 20 that the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), in conjunction with the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services, has awarded grants totaling $200,000 to five local mental health agencies that will enable them to establish Crisis Intervention Teams (CITs). The teams will consist of specially-trained law enforcement officers and mental health treatment professionals who enhance law enforcement's response to situations involving persons with mental illness or disability.
Retired Virginia Beach Police Chief loses battle with cancer
May 19, 2009 | VACP
The VACP is saddened to report that Retired Virginia Beach Chief Charles R. Wall passed away Monday night, May 18, 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer. Chief Wall served as President of the VACP from August, 1996 – August, 1997.
Funeral services will be held Friday, May 22 in Virginia Beach.
Chief Wall retired from the Virginia Beach Police Department in August of 1999, after 18 years of dedicated service, and, along with his wife, Marion, lived in Virginia Beach. During his long law enforcement career, beginning in 1958, Chief Wall served as the Chief of Police for Morgantown, WV, Rockville, MD, and Washington Township, NJ. Chief Wall also served as a staff consultant for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP.)
Under his leadership the Virginia Beach Police Department received its first national accreditation in 1987, at that time being one of only 25 cities nationwide to achieve this distinction. During his tenure, the Police Department was one of the first City departments to implement a microcomputer local area network, E-911 emergency telephone reporting that displays a caller’s telephone number and address, and became the first municipality to use both mobile and portable KDT technology in a public safety operation. Chief Wall continued the expansion of the 800MHz radio system, the Department’s Automated Fingerprint Identification System was recognized as one of the best in the Commonwealth, established the Fourth Precinct in the Kempsville area and a police substation in Creeds, established the Selective Enforcement Team to apprehend drunk drivers, and implemented the Family Trauma Unit to investigate sexual and physical assault cases involving children and family members.
During his tenure as Virginia Beach’s Police Chief, Chief Wall was responsible for establishing Crime Solvers and the Mounted Patrol. He was a proponent of community policing, school resource officers, and increasing training standards for all officers.
In 1981, when he became Police Chief, the Virginia Beach Police Department’s sworn complement was 397. By the time he retired in 1999, Chief Wall commanded 777 sworn officers. During that time, the Department was aggressive in pursuing federal funding for sworn personnel, and was one of the first departments in the nation to be awarded grant funds through the U. S. Department of Justice COPS Office in 1993 for 28 officers. Grants totaling more than $8 million for about 120 officers were awarded for additional sworn personnel under his tenure as chief. Under his watch, Part I crimes dropped from 56.3 crimes per 1,000 population to 38.5 crimes per 1,000 population.
From 1986 – 1997 Chief Wall served on the Board of Directors of Crime Stoppers International, Inc. Following his retirement, he remained an active Board Member of Virginia Beach Crime Solvers.
In memory of Chief Wall, Virginia Beach police officers will have their badges draped through the day of his memorial service.
There will be two viewing sessions on Thursday, May 21, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 22, at 2:00 p.m. at the Church of the Ascension located at 4853 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach. A graveside service will follow at Colonial Grove Memorial Park, Princess Anne and Dam Neck Roads.
The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Virginia Beach Crime Solvers, Inc.
Virginia Beach Crime Solvers, Inc. Dan Edwards, Treasurer 1513 Beachview Drive, Virginia Beach 23464
Cards of sympathy may be sent to:
Mrs. Marion Wall C/O The Virginia Beach Police Department 2509 Princess Anne Road, Building #11 Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Please keep Chief Wall and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Lynchburg rally organizers say public safety pay shouldn’t get cut
May 18, 2009 | Virginia News
A downtown rally will be held next week to show support for public safety officers slated to take an across-the-board pay cut in the new fiscal year that starts this summer.
The rally will take place on the same day City Council is scheduled to grant final approval to the new budget. The budget, in its current form, imposes a 3 percent pay cut on all city employees.
Recently, it’s been suggested the public safety division — which consists of police, fire and emergency dispatchers — should be exempt from those salary reductions given the nature and significance of their jobs. Rally organizers hope to drive that message home to council and, perhaps, persuade members to alter the budget before it goes through.
“We want to open up the dialogue and see City Council go back to the drawing board and find creative ways to balance the budget without cutting salaries,” said Leecy Fink, a rally organizer and wife of a 12-year Lynchburg Police Department veteran.
In Henrico, parents are warned about pill parties
May 15, 2009 | Virginia News
Rather than bringing snacks and sodas to some parties, teens are bringing whatever prescription pills they can glean from around the house.
They'll mix them in a bowl and then grab a handful of this "trail mix" without knowing what they're ingesting.
Pharming parties, as they are known, are gaining popularity, said Denise Miller of the Henrico Too Smart 2 Start Coalition.
Deputy police chief in Newport News named Suffolk chief
May 15, 2009 | Virginia News
Thomas E. Bennett will take the job in Suffolk on June 15, according to a statement from City Manager Selena Cuffee-Glenn.
Virginia’s Annual Crime Analysis Report Now Available on VSP Web Site
May 14, 2009 | Virginia News
RICHMOND – Virginia’s official and only comprehensive report on local and statewide crime figures for 2008 is now available online at the Virginia State Police Web site at http://www.vsp.virginia.gov, under “Forms & Publications.”
The detailed report, titled Crime in Virginia, provides precise rates and occurrences of crimes committed in towns, cities and counties across the Commonwealth. The report breaks down criminal offenses by the reporting agency as well as arrests by jurisdiction.
The following 2008 crime trends within Virginia are detailed in the report:
- Virginia experienced a decline in violent crime of 4.7 percent compared to 2007; whereas, the FBI reports an estimated nationwide decrease of 3.5 percent for 2008.
- While there was a decrease in motor vehicle thefts of 6.6 percent, other property crimes such as larceny, fraud and stolen property offenses showed an increase of 3.6 percent, 4.3 percent, 2.1 percent, respectively.
- Unlike previous reporting periods, drug and narcotic offenses showed a decrease of 3.5 percent statewide during this period.
- Of the 7,486 robberies and attempted robberies, nearly one-third (32 percent) took place between 8 p.m. and midnight. The days of the week, however, showed little variability. Robberies occurred most often on Saturdays (16 percent) and Fridays (15 percent), but each of the other days of the week accounted for a nearly equal amount (14 percent).
- Of the known weapons reported, firearms were the most frequently used in homicides (70 percent) and robberies (61 percent).
- August saw the most number of burglaries, while February experienced the least. Most burglaries occurred between 4 p.m. and 5:59 p.m.
- For motor vehicle thefts, Friday and Saturday saw the highest number of offenses between 10 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. Over three quarters (76 percent) of the 8,903 automobiles reported stolen were recovered.
The report employs an Incident Based Reporting (IBR) method for calculating offenses, thus allowing for greater accuracy. The IBR divides crimes into two categories: Group A for serious offenses including violent crimes, murder, forcible rape, robbery, aggravated assault, property crimes and drug offenses; and Group B, less serious offenses including trespassing, disorderly conduct, bad checks and liquor law violations where an arrest has occurred.
For Group A offenses, between 2007 and 2008, adult arrests in Virginia increased 2 percent. Juvenile offense arrests statewide decreased 2.3 percent during the same time period. Crime in Virginia reports that Group B arrests increased 1.1 percent for adults and almost no change among juveniles (.04 percent) from 2007 to 2008. There were a total of 332,330 arrests in 2007 compared to 336,189 arrests in 2008, representing an increase of 1.2 percent.
Per state mandate, the state police serve as the primary collector of crime data from participating Virginia state and local police departments, and sheriff’s offices. The data is collected by the Virginia State Police Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division via an automated system, and then compiled into a concise report for use by law enforcement, elected officials, media and the general public.
Virginia Law Enforcement Reunites with Mississippi Police for First Time After Hurricane Katrina
May 14, 2009 | Virginia News
Commonwealth’s State & Local Police Honored for Work Following Deadly Storm
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The Picayune Police Department of Pearl River County, Miss., recognized in a special ceremony, Monday, May 11, 2009, members from the Alexandria Police, Prince William County Police and Virginia State Police for the manpower and logistical support provided in the weeks following Hurricane Katrina. Picayune Police Chief Jim Luke presented each agency with a city proclamation and plaque acknowledging the Virginia agencies’ extraordinary work and assistance.
“I described Virginia’s law enforcement officers then as ‘angels with badges’ because we were very fortunate to have them help our city during a time of great difficulty,” said Chief Jim Luke. “We wanted to come back to our law enforcement friends in Virginia and say thank you for their commitment to public safety and helping our city remain safe in the midst of major turmoil.”
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast causing widespread destruction and significant damage to infrastructure. The City of Picayune, consisting of 14 square miles and 40 sworn officers, requested assistance with general law enforcement duties, such as service calls and security. Picayune is one of the highest points closest to the Gulf Coast. Located 45 miles from New Orleans, La., the city’s population tripled in size immediately following the catastrophic storm.
“We were humbled by the experiences we received during our time in Mississippi, but we are more thankful the City of Picayune and our police counterparts are stronger and back on their feet,” said Deputy Chief Earl Cook with the Alexandria Police Department.
The Commonwealth responded to the call for aid by deploying three multi-jurisdictional teams over the course of a month to Pearl River County, Miss., which consisted of Alexandria, Prince William and Virginia State Police. The first multi-agency task force left Virginia on Oct. 10, 2005 and worked 12-hour shifts while living in tents in Picayune. In addition to providing back-up support to law enforcement, the Commonwealth also donated surplus equipment to Mississippi: light bars, holsters, pistol belts, armored vests and computers.
“When the initial news of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation reached us, we began planning in case our help would be needed,” added Charlie T. Deane, Prince William County Police Chief. “We were fortunate to be able to send a variety of resources, and I’m proud of the commitment and dedication that our responding officers displayed.”
This was also the farthest the Virginia State Police have ever been called away from the Commonwealth and for such an extended length of time to assist another state with law enforcement duties.
“It was rewarding for our troopers to be part of the re-building process in Mississippi,” explained Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “Many members of the Picayune community thanked the task force teams daily for their response efforts. More importantly, this was a testament to the human spirit and what can be done when we all work together for the common good.”
The Picayune Police Department is visiting Virginia while attending 2009 National Police Week, May 10-16, 2009, in Washington D.C.
Could Pay Cuts Make Police Leave?
May 14, 2009 | Virginia News
Lynchburg, VA - Could Lynchburg's skinnier budget impact public safety? A police advocacy group worries the city's 3% pay cut could drive good, needed officers away. The concern is officers can get a better deal somewhere else, meaning higher pay and better benefits. They say holding on to experienced officers is critical to keeping the streets safe.
Last year, violent crime in Lynchburg rose 7.4%. This year, the officers hired to fight it will be making less.
Public safety leaders endorse Stolle for Beach sheriff
May 13, 2009 | Virginia News
The Fraternal Order of Police, Virginia Beach Professional Firefighters, the City Council and leaders of statewide law enforcement organizations endorsed state Sen. Ken Stolle for sheriff Tuesday.
Kaine calls for further state budget cuts
May 12, 2009 | Virginia News
Kaine said he has instructed the heads of all state agencies to reduce spending further, because revenues for April, May and June are expected to fall below estimates upon which the budget for fiscal 2009 was based.
That means the state could fall up to $225 million short of the revenue it needs to balance Virginia's budget through the fiscal year that ends June 30.
Families often found sharing a workplace
May 10, 2009 | Virginia News
It's not uncommon for members of the same family to work together, especially in law enforcement, but it does come with benefits and drawbacks, one expert said.
Nepotism -- or even the perception of it -- can cause issues in any office.
The question of whether relatives should work together surfaced last week when it was made public that state police are investigating documents related to the employment of the teenage daughter of the Franklin County sheriff. Police are looking into whether Ashley Hunt, who worked in the sheriff's office, had been paid for hours she may not have worked.
National Law Enforcement Museum Receives $1.5 Million Grant from Verizon Foundation
May 4, 2009 | National News
Money to Fund Innovative Education and Technology Programs, Domestic Violence Prevention Program at Museum
WASHINGTON, DC — The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund announced today that it has received a $1.5 million grant from the Verizon Foundation to develop educational and interactive technology programs at the planned National Law Enforcement Museum.
The facility, to be located in Judiciary Square, will be the world's most comprehensive museum focusing on law enforcement. Groundbreaking is scheduled for the fall of 2010.
"This grant will fund the development of interactive learning tools and educational programs that will enhance the museum experience and meet national standards of learning in history, civics, science and math," said Craig W. Floyd, chairman of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, which is leading the museum effort.
The grant, announced at a program with 8th grade students at Lincoln Multicultural Middle School in Northwest Washington, funds programs such as:
- Additional educational programs at the Museum and online through the National Law Enforcement Museum website, which are applicable to students in grades K-12 and focused in the areas of civics, history, math and science.
- A Socially Responsible Educational Program designed to increase respect, trust and confidence between law enforcement, domestic violence survivors, their families and the general public, including a monthly event designed to teach K-12 students the basics of playing safely in a community, decision-making and options to escape violence and bullying.
- A domestic violence awareness and prevention certification program for professionals who assist domestic violence survivors.
"Education and domestic violence prevention are two key social issues for the Verizon Foundation," said Verizon Foundation President Patrick Gaston. "Through Verizon's partnership with the National Law Enforcement Museum, students, parents and teachers will have access to valuable resources to improve their educational experience and find tools to help them identify and prevent domestic violence."
Students at today's event took part in a question-and-answer session with actor and director Eric Close, of the CBS TV show "Without a Trace." Close, who plays detective Martin Fitzgerald on the show, talked with students about civic engagement, peer pressure and how decisions made as a teen can lead to success or failure later in life. In addition, students and their families took part in a Verizon Wireless HopeLine drive to collect no-longer-used cell phones, batteries and accessories that will be recycled or refurbished and sold for re-use to support domestic violence survivors and nonprofit organizations focused on domestic violence awareness and prevention.
The Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Verizon Communications, supports the advancement of literacy and K-12 education through its free educational Web site, Thinkfinity.org, and fosters awareness and prevention of domestic violence. In 2008, the Verizon Foundation awarded more than $68 million in grants to nonprofit agencies in the U.S. and abroad. It also matched the charitable donations of Verizon employees and retirees, resulting in an additional $26 million in combined contributions to nonprofits. Through Verizon Volunteers, one of the nation's largest employee volunteer programs, Verizon employees and retirees have volunteered more than 3 million hours of community service since 2000. For more information on the foundation, visit http://www.verizonfoundation.org/ .
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 86 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 237,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com/.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a private non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of America's law enforcement officers. The NLEOMF maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, which contains the names of 18,661 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history. The Memorial Fund is now leading the effort to build the first-ever National Law Enforcement Museum, which will tell the story of law enforcement through high-tech, interactive exhibitions, historical artifacts and extensive educational programming. For more information, visit http://www.lawmemorial.org/.
Meth ‘epidemic’ prompts call for federal aid in Galax
May 4, 2009 | Virginia News
Galax is more widely known for its furniture factory, the Christmas tree farms that dot surrounding counties, and the annual fiddlers convention that draws thousands of people from around the world.
But local law enforcement officials are trying to draw more federal attention to ongoing troubles with meth and the Mexican drug cartels blamed for running the drug into the region. Investigators call Galax a regional hub in a drug pipeline extending back to Greensboro, N.C., Atlanta and the Texas-Mexico border.
Richmond Fed Promotes Officer to Top Law Enforcement Position
April 28, 2009 | VACP
RICHMOND, Va. — The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond has promoted Dennis McDonald as vice president of the regional law enforcement division, which is based in Richmond.
As of the April 1, 2009, McDonald oversees a professional staff engaged in security and law enforcement operations for the Richmond Office, as well as the branch officers in Charlotte, N.C., and Baltimore, Md. His scope of responsibilities includes management and training and counsel for Bank leadership.
“The expanded responsibilities come at a time when the Fed’s role in the economy and the nation’s financial well-being is so important,” said McDonald. “While the role is personally and professionally satisfying, the Bank’s security efforts are as challenging and critical as ever.”
McDonald’s leadership role, according to Senior Vice President Janice Clatterbuck., is important to ensuring coordinated strength in protecting the Bank’s employees, facilities and operations associated with its work on behalf of America’s economy. “Dennis' prior experiences, along with his demonstrated management skills make him a perfect fit for this position,” Clatterbuck said “He is respected by his employees as well as management District-wide.”
McDonald joined the Richmond Fed in 2004 after retiring from Chesterfield County’s Police Department. His 28-year career included a series of promotions that took him from patrol officer to lieutenant colonel. During that time, he founded the county’s Hostage Negotiation Team, helped develop a number of special training programs and oversaw various large-scale law enforcement operations.
McDonald and his wife Joanne have two grown children.
For more information about the Richmond Fed, see http://richmondfed.org/.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond is one of 12 District Reserve Banks that together with the Board of Governors in Washington, D.C., make up the Federal Reserve System. The Richmond Fed serves the Fifth Federal Reserve District, which encompasses the District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and most of West Virginia.
The Business Behind the Badge
April 24, 2009 | Virginia News
City of Hopewell. Population 22,354. Traffic tickets written in 2008 =2,096. Tickets for January and February of this year (2009) = 719
Hopewell is on track for a 100% increase. And double its revenue.
Sheriff Greg Anderson has been Hopewell's Sheriff, for four years and is the brainchild of the 295 Plan. The plan involves officers running radar along a short stretch of 295 in Hopewell.
"It's a project I took on to give back to the City," says Anderson, "About $165,000 (of the ticket revenue) goes straight into the City treasury."
New program launched to fight crime in Hopewell
April 23, 2009 | Virginia News
HOPEWELL, VA (WWBT) - Fighting crime and promoting partnerships between police and citizens. That's the goal of a new program that's just getting underway in Hopewell.
It's called community policing. In Hopewell, three officers are now exclusively assigned to three specific high crime areas. Those officers walk their assigned neighborhoods daily creating a presence and getting to know residents.
The Hopewell police department was able to launch the program thanks to a $225,000 grant.
External Link to ArticleSupreme Court Limits Warrantless Searches
April 21, 2009 | National News
WASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court ruled that police need a warrant to search the vehicle of someone they have arrested if the person is locked up in a patrol cruiser and poses no safety threat to officers.
The court's 5-4 decision puts new limits on the ability of police to search a vehicle immediately after the arrest of a suspect.
Justice John Paul Stevens said in the majority opinion that warrantless searches still may be conducted if a car's passenger compartment is within reach of a suspect who has been removed from the vehicle or there is reason to believe evidence of a crime will be found.
"When these justifications are absent, a search of an arrestee's vehicle will be unreasonable unless police obtain a warrant," Mr. Stevens said.
Justice Samuel Alito, in dissent, complained that the decision upsets police practice that has developed since the court first authorized warrantless searches immediately following an arrest.
"There are cases in which it is unclear whether an arrestee could retrieve a weapon or evidence," Mr. Alito said.
Even more confusing, he said, is asking police to determine whether the vehicle contains evidence of a crime. "What this rule permits in a variety of situations is entirely unclear," Mr. Alito said.
The decision backs an Arizona high-court ruling in favor of Rodney Joseph Gant, who was handcuffed, seated in the back of a patrol car and under police supervision when Tucson, Ariz., police officers searched his car. They found cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
The trial court said the evidence could be used against Mr. Gant, but Arizona appeals courts overturned the convictions because the officers already had secured the scene and thus faced no threat to their safety or concern about evidence being preserved.
The state and the Bush administration complained that ruling would impose a "dangerous and unworkable test" that would complicate the daily lives of law-enforcement officers.
The justices divided in an unusual fashion. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Antonin Scalia, David Souter and Clarence Thomas joined the majority opinion. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Stephen Breyer and Anthony Kennedy were in dissent along with Mr. Alito.
Supreme Court Opinion: Arizona v. Gant (PDF)
Poll gives McDonnell lead in hypothetical governor matchups
April 17, 2009 | Virginia News
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell leads all three potential Democratic opponents by 10 percentage points or more, according to a poll released yesterday.
Tech makes strides in academic, athletic and campus-safety programs
April 17, 2009 | Virginia News
In terms of security on campus, Tech has made some upgrades.
The university has installed electronic message panels inside classrooms to display alerts, and in two recent cases -- one a homicide, the other a false alarm about gunshots -- issued warnings to campus. Delays and spotty delivery, especially on the false-alarm alert, prompted measures to improve the systems.
Jerry Kilgore endorses John Brownlee for AG
April 16, 2009 | Virginia News
Former Republican Attorney General and Virginia gubernatorial candidate Jerry Kilgore has endorsed John Brownlee in his bid to secure the Republican nomination to run for attorney general.
Kilgore will serve as Brownlee's campaign manager.
Kilgore said he thinks Brownlee is the most electable candidate.
Brownlee is a former U. S. Attorney in the western district of Virginia. Kilgore was an assistant U.S. Attorney in that district.
Also competing for the nomination to run for attorney general are state Sen. Ken Cuccinelli of Fairfax and David Foster, an Arlington attorney. Republicans will nominate candidates at a state convention in Richmond May 29-30.
Candidate's Website: http://www.johnbrownlee2009.com/
Delegate & Exhibitor Registration Open for 2009 VACP Annual Conference
April 15, 2009 | VACP
Forms are now available for both delegate and guest registration AND exhibitor registration for the 2009 Annual Conference to be held August 9-12, 2009 in Newport News, VA.
Click here for Annual Conference Information
Gun law ‘loophole’ criticized
April 14, 2009 | Virginia News
NYC mayor unveils ad against law
ARLINGTON — Until Congress closes a loophole that makes it easy for criminals to buy firearms at gun shows, Virginia and other states must work to tighten their own laws, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg said Monday.
Bloomberg joined family members of Virginia Tech massacre victims in Northern Virginia to unveil a new television ad that will begin airing Tuesday, which calls on the state to end a practice allowing what are called “occasional sellers” at gun shows to sell weapons without conducting background checks.
External Link to ArticleThe Profile Police: Campus Officers Cruise Facebook, MySpace for Clues To School-Related Crimes
April 14, 2009 | Virginia News
As high school students flock to social networking sites, campus police are scanning their Facebook and MySpace pages for tips to help break up fights, monitor gangs and thwart crime in what amounts to a new cyberbeat.
Some students object to police looking over their shoulders. But officers responsible for school safety say routine checks of the online forums often add to the knowledge they glean from hallways or schoolyards.
"I can't tell you how many fights we've been able to prevent," said Officer Freddie Rappina, who is based at Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax County.
He and another officer watch over more than 4,000 students at the largest school in Virginia. In Rappina's small office at the end of a series of long hallways, a flat-panel computer screen offers him a portal into student life.
Front Royal names new police chief
April 14, 2009 | Virginia News
FRONT ROYAL -- A 27-year veteran with the Front Royal Police Department, Capt. Richard H. Furr was named as the agency's new chief on Monday.
Furr has served as interim chief since Ronald A. Williamson announced his resignation in September. Williamson held the post for nearly three years after succeeding Ronald A. Ricucci, who stepped down in 2005 after serving as chief for five years.
Prior to his appointment, Furr had said that if he was named police chief, he would stay in the post for at least three years.
External Link to ArticleLaw enforcement continue push for grants
April 8, 2009 | Virginia News
The increasing need and declining economy put officers and deputies in a tight spot.
The Blacksburg Police Department, like many agencies across the state, is ramping up efforts to find grant funding to upgrade equipment and even hire new staff. Pursuing grant programs is not easy, though, and can itself put staffing pressure on agencies.
While grants are the lifeblood of law enforcement, "a lot of work goes into applying for and administering them," said Dana Schrad of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police.
External Link to ArticleGov. Kaine amends bill to allow early voting for all
April 7, 2009 | Virginia News
Two bills were passed earlier this year allowing first responders, including firefighters and police officers, to vote early, but Kaine’s amendment of the second bill would expand the practice to all voters, the Daily Press newspaper was reporting.
Kaine already has signed one bill allowing police and firefighters to vote early, the newspaper reported. That bill becomes law on July 1.
The General Assembly reconvenes tomorrow.
Stolle confirms he’ll run for sheriff, says he has Parkinson’s
April 3, 2009 | Virginia News
State Sen. Ken Stolle, R-Virginia Beach, this morning made it official: He'll run for Virginia Beach sheriff this fall and leave the legislature if elected.
In an interview with The Virginian-Pilot today, the long-serving legislator also disclosed that he has Parkinson's disease, a degenerative neurological disorder that can impair motor skills.
Stolle, 54, said the diagnosis was not a major factor in his decision to run for sheriff, which is motivated by a desire to return to law enforcement.
External Link to ArticleEx-Lobbyist, Kaine Brother-in-Law Among 4 Proposed for U.S. Attorney
April 2, 2009 | Virginia News
A former corporate lobbyist and the brother-in-law of Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine are among four candidates recommended by Virginia's U.S. senators for U.S. attorney in Alexandria, one of the nation's most prominent law-enforcement posts, officials said yesterday.
2 new noses join Radford police force
April 1, 2009 | Virginia News
RADFORD -- Dogs are once again a part of the Radford Police Department.
Jake and Boom, two Labrador retrievers, started work last week as a drug detection dog and an explosives and firearms detection dog, respectively.
The department's officers had been without a police dog for about two years, since the retirement of Dusty, a Belgian shepherd who worked as a patrol and drug detection dog for six years.
Even though they didn't have handlers ready, they couldn't pass up Jake, an 83-pound male yellow Lab, and Boom, a high-energy 50-pound female chocolate Lab.
"We were able to get both dogs for nothing," Chief Don Goodman said.
Boom was donated in September by a police dog trainer. Jake came in January from Tazewell County. Training was already well under way for both of them, and West End Animal Clinic in Radford volunteered to cover the cost of their medical care.
Read Rest of Article (External Link)
Danville officers go to work to raise funds for Special Olympics
March 27, 2009 | Virginia News
Law enforcement officers were out in force Friday at Texas Steakhouse & Saloon, encouraging diners to leave generous tips for the benefit of the local Special Olympics.
Hooch Becomes A Cop At K-9 Graduation
March 18, 2009 | Virginia News
Hooch is ready for his new job as a police dog
After almost four months of training, a 2-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever found at an animal shelter is starting a new career in law enforcement.
K-9 Hooch was taken to the Bristol Tennessee Animal Shelter about six months ago, said Cynthia Bales, the Bristol Tennessee Police Department clerk who recognized the Lab might have what it takes to be a police dog.
So Bales found Hooch a home with the Bristol Virginia Police Department, which at the time was looking for a new narcotics dog and a new Labrador to join its K-9 Unit.
“I just hate to see a good dog like that go to waste,” Bales said. If she failed to find the dog a home, Bales said, she planned to train him to be a cadaver dog for a local search-and-rescue group.
But the Bristol Virginia department was in need, and Hooch went into training.
External Link to Rest of Article
St. Patrick’s Day revelry draws police attention on the roads
March 17, 2009 | Virginia News
State Police Col. W. Steve Flaherty and AAA spokeswoman Martha Meade joined with Richmond's Sine Irish pub to urge moderation for the holiday.
State and local police plan to be out in force to enforce laws against drunken drivers on St. Patrick's Day, a jovial holiday that law officers and highway safety officials have come to dread.
Virginia State Police Trooper Receives National “2008 Trooper of the Year” Award
March 14, 2009 | National News
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Virginia State Police Trooper Justin T. Mahalik made Department history Friday night, March 13, 2009, for his valiant, life-saving actions during a traffic stop in Northern Virginia last April. At its annual State and Provincial Police Conference in Alexandria, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) selected Trooper Mahalik as its “2008 IACP/Motorola Trooper of the Year.” He is the first trooper since the Virginia State Police was established 77 years ago to achieve such a prestigious honor.
Last month, Trooper Mahalik succeeded in being selected as the IACP/Motorola North-Atlantic Region’s “2008 Trooper of the Year.” Only four troopers from the United States and Canada earn such recognition each year by the IACP. The “IACP/Motorola Trooper of the Year” is selected from the four finalists submitted from their four regions by a committee of superintendents. This year’s other honorees included troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Illinois State Police and Washington State Patrol.
“Virginia’s state police troopers often perform courageous acts during the course of their daily patrols and investigations,” said Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “To have the IACP present its highest state police honor to Trooper Mahalik for his heroic efforts is of tremendous pride for our Department. Justin is most deserving of this esteemed award, and we are grateful for his full recovery and commitm
In the overnight hours of April 30, 2008, Trooper Mahalik was stopped out with a violator on Interstate 66 near Route 50 in Northern Virginia. While seated inside his patrol car with the violator, Trooper Mahalik’s vehicle was rear-ended by a drunken driver. The impact caused the patrol car to catch fire, which quickly spread through the vehicle.
Despite suffering spinal injuries and burns to his legs, Trooper Mahalik managed to escape his burning patrol car, get around to the passenger side, and pull the unconscious violator from the front seat. Moments later the patrol vehicle was engulfed in flames.
The drunk driver was not injured in the crash and the original violator suffered only minor injuries, thanks to the trooper’s quick and valiant actions. After surgery and several months of physical therapy, Trooper Mahalik returned to the road last fall.
Trooper Mahalik is the Department’s second sworn member to achieve the IACP/Motorola North-Atlantic Region Trooper of the Year recognition. The first Virginia State Police trooper to ever receive the honor was Trooper R.S. “Bobby” Bowers Jr., who was shot twice while pursuing a suspect in 2005 in Hampton Roads.
Police agencies buried in resumes
March 12, 2009 | National News
Job seekers are swamping federal, state and local police agencies during the economic downturn, a reversal from recent years when departments struggled to find qualified recruits.
Police chiefs expect the new prospects, many of them highly experienced and victims of corporate cutbacks, will be better suited to fill a range of public safety jobs, from dispatchers to beat cops.
Many apply for police job slots
March 11, 2009 | Virginia News
More interest in law enforcement doesn't necessarily mean that police agencies are seeing more qualified applicants.
But within the past year, several Roanoke-area agencies have seen a dramatic increase in applicants.
Police officials said they believe the economy is one factor, but they also said there are soldiers coming home from Iraq or Afghanistan and college graduates looking for police work.
Finances Hinder Police Chief Search
March 11, 2009 | Virginia News
HURT and ALTAVISTA, Va. - It's a matter of money. Some small towns in our area say finances are keeping them from finding a qualified police chief. We talked with officials in Hurt and Altavista and both recently had men turn down the positions because of the pay. Both towns are now resuming their searches, hoping a qualified candidate will step forward and accept the offered salary.
Front Royal continues police chief search
March 8, 2009 | Virginia News
Town currently reviewing applications, resumes, hopes to name individual to post by early April
Beach deal opens police jobs to Army vets
March 7, 2009 | Virginia News
Army reservists and veterans looking for work will have an in with the Police Department.
During a ceremony Friday at the Law Enforcement Training Academy, police Chief Jake Jacocks agreed to participate in the Army's Partnership for Youth Success Program.
The program matches qualified Army recruits with jobs at military-friendly companies and public agencies. In this case, Military Police officers who complete their service or go on reserve status can fill needed positions with the local police department.
Stimulus money will stem cuts to law enforcement
March 7, 2009 | Virginia News
Law enforcement agencies across the state, including local departments, will benefit from the $787 billion federal stimulus package.
The U.S. Department of Justice has released $39.8 million in stimulus funds to Virginia public safety agencies, U.S. Sens. Jim Webb, D-Arlington, and Mark R. Warner, D-Alexandria, announced Friday.
The senators said $15.5 million will go directly to sheriffs’ offices and police departments. The rest — $24.3 million — will go to criminal justice programs.
RELATED: Breakdown of JAG allocation amounts for Virginia state and local governments (Excel spreadsheet)
North Carolina and Virginia Law Enforcement Agencies Connect Via Internet Protocol-Based Solution
March 2, 2009 | Virginia News
Many law enforcement and emergency management forces use land mobile radio technology to communicate, but often each agency has its own frequency and range -- sufficient when talking among colleagues of a single department, but problematic for talking to other agencies. Sometimes a memorandum of understanding permits one agency to switch to another agency's frequency if necessary. However, the drawback is an agency can't use its own frequency while also using another jurisdiction's frequency. In these cases, the long arm of the law can be thrown seriously out of joint.
But there's hope on the horizon for regional authorities and their citizens.
Kaine says he’ll sign smoking curbs into law, veto concealed guns in bars
February 27, 2009 | Virginia News
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine yesterday did little to cheer people who want to smoke in restaurants, people who want to take concealed weapons into bars, or payday lenders.
Kaine said he would veto legislation passed by the General Assembly that would allow holders of concealed-weapons permits to bring their hidden guns into establishments that serve alcohol.
"I'm very nervous about the public-safety impact of that bill," he said.
COPS Office announces grants for hiring personnel
February 26, 2009 | National News
The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) is pleased to announce the availability of funding under the COPS Hiring Recovery Program (CHRP). The COPS Office will receive the funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to address the personnel needs of state, local, and tribal law enforcement. Application materials are scheduled to be available before the end of March. There is no local match requirement.
CHRP is a competitive grant program that provides funding directly to law enforcement agencies having primary law enforcement authority to create and preserve jobs and to increase their community policing capacity and crime-prevention efforts. Up to $1 billion in grant funding will be available for the hiring and rehiring of additional career law enforcement officers. There is no local match requirement for CHRP, but grant funding will be based on current entry-level salary and benefits packages and therefore any additional costs for higher salaries or benefits for particular individuals hired will be the responsibility of the grantee agency.
CHRP grants will provide 100 percent funding for approved entry-level salaries and benefits for 3 years (36 months) for newly-hired, full-time sworn officer positions (including filling existing unfunded vacancies) or for rehired officers who have been laid off, or are scheduled to be laid off on a future date, as a result of local budget cuts. In addition, there is no cap on the number of positions an agency may request, but awards will be limited to available funding. Please be mindful of the initial 3-year grant period and your agencys ability to fill the officer positions awarded, while following your agencys established hiring policies and procedures.
At the conclusion of federal funding, grantees must retain all sworn officer positions awarded under the CHRP grant. The retained CHRP-funded position(s) should be added to the grantees law enforcement budget with state and/or local funds, over and above the number of locally-funded positions that would have existed in the absence of the grant.
The COPS Hiring Recovery Program funding is in addition to $2.76 billion in preventing and controlling crime and $225 million to combat violence against women. For more information on CHRP and additional Department of Justice grant program opportunities, including the Byrne JAG Program, click below:
- CHRP Information and Application Procedures
- CHRP Letter from the Acting COPS Director (PDF)
- Office of Justice Programs
- Office on Violence Against Women
To determine if your agency will be eligible to apply for CHRP funding, please click here
To learn about the Department of Justice's implementation of the Recovery Act, visit www.usdoj.gov/recovery
Supreme Court Upholds Reasonable Restrictions on Guns for Domestic Abusers
February 25, 2009 | National News
WASHINGTON, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United States Supreme Court today rejected arguments by the gun lobby and convicted wife beater Randy Edward Hayes that federal law allowed Hayes to possess firearms, upholding the broad federal ban on gun possession by convicted misdemeanor domestic violence abusers.
The Court cited arguments made by the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence about the risks posed by firearms in the hands of domestic abusers.
The 7-2 ruling in United States v. Hayes was a blow to gun lobby groups that had urged the Court to severely narrow the federal Lautenberg Amendment that bars gun possession by abusers convicted of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence. The Court reversed an earlier ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit that, if upheld, would have allowed convicted abusers in at least 25 states to rearm themselves with firearms.
"In its first gun case since the landmark Heller decision, the Court wisely upheld this reasonable restriction," said Brady Center President Paul Helmke. "Today's ruling is the right one for victims of domestic abuse and to protect law enforcement officers who are our first responders to domestic violence incidents."
"Today, the Supreme Court sided with abused women and children and against the gun lobby," said Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), a leader in the fight to reduce gun violence and the author of the domestic violence gun ban. "Since it was enacted, my domestic violence gun ban has kept more than 150,000 guns out of the hands of domestic abusers. We know a gun in the home makes it much more likely that domestic abuse results in death and today's decision means we can continue keeping guns out of dangerous hands and saving innocent lives."
Congress enacted the Lautenberg Amendment in 1996 to prohibit abusers convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence crimes from possessing firearms. In April 2007, the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a wife beater's conviction for illegal gun possession by narrowly interpreting the Lautenberg Amendment as only barring gun possession by abusers convicted of laws specifically barring domestic violence, rather than all persons convicted of domestic violence under general assault and battery laws.
The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, joined by law enforcement organizations, had filed a brief in support of the ban on gun possession by all abusers convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, which was cited by the Court. The brief highlighted the great danger that armed abusers pose to family members of these abusers as well as law enforcement officers summoned to address such violence. On average, more than three people are killed by intimate partners every day in this country. Intimate partner homicides account for up to one-half of all homicides of females. Every year between 1,000 and 1,600 women die at the hands of their male partners, and 14 percent of all police officer deaths occurred during a response to domestic violence calls.
The groups that joined the Brady Center brief are the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Major Cities Chiefs, National Sheriffs' Association, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association, Police Executive Research Forum, National Black Police Association, National Latino Peace Officers Association, Legal Community Against Violence, and School Safety Advocacy Council.
The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence is a national non-profit organization working to reduce the tragic toll of gun violence in America, through education, research, and legal advocacy. The programs of the Brady Center complement the legislative and grassroots mobilization of its sister organization, the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence with its dedicated network of Million Mom March Chapters.
Contact: Peter Hamm, 202-898-0792,
LINK: Supreme Court Opinion (PDF)
Bell is executed for murder of Winchester officer
February 20, 2009 | Virginia News
JARRATT -- Winchester police officer's killer is executed Maintaining his claim of innocence to the end, Edward Nathaniel Bell was executed by injection last night for the Oct. 29, 1999, slaying of Winchester police Sgt. Ricky L. Timbrook.
Bell, 43, was pronounced dead at 9:11 p.m., Traylor said. It was the 103rd execution in Virginia since the death penalty was restored in 1976.
Bell was sentenced to die for killing Timbrook, 32, who was shot once in the head from close range while chasing Bell on foot. Bell was on probation, and the two had earlier run-ins.
RELATED LINK: Bell's last words: 'You definitely have the wrong person. The truth will come out one day.' By Garren Shipley, reporter for the Northern Virginia Daily and execution witness
Nominations Sought for Governor’s Transportation Safety Awards
February 19, 2009 | Virginia News
Applications Due February 27, 2009
RICHMOND - Nominations for the 2009 Governor's Transportation Safety Awards may be submitted now through February 27, 2009. Awards in 17 categories honor individuals and organizations for outstanding transportation safety contributions.
The Virginia Board of Transportation Safety will review submissions and approve final selections. Entries will be judged on creativity, imagination, uniqueness, the impact on the community, and the use of volunteers and private sector resources. Individuals, organizations, businesses or government agencies are eligible for these awards based on transportation safety activities and programs that took place during 2008.
"Preliminary data indicates there were 218 fewer traffic fatalities in Virginia last year compared to 2007," said DMV Commissioner D.B. Smit. "That tells us we have a lot of great safety programs in our Commonwealth that contributed to the decrease in road deaths. And there is still more work to do."
The award categories include:
- Lifetime Safety Achievement Award - Presented to an individual who has made significant contributions on behalf of transportation safety initiatives and programs.
- W. Calvin Falwell/Major Kenneth Rowe Award for Aviation Safety - Granted for promoting air transportation safety.
- Employer Safety - Awarded to employers who encourage their employees to practice safe driving behaviors.
- General Traffic Safety - Presented for demonstrating exemplary efforts in changing transportation safety attitudes and behaviors. Nominations that show achievement in the design, development and/or implementation of engineering techniques that reduce crashes on Virginia's highways will be considered.
- Impaired Driving - Granted for promoting alcohol- and drug-free driving.
- Law Enforcement - Awarded to law enforcement personnel who have shown extra initiative in advancing transportation safety in their community.
- Legal - Presented to attorneys or judges who have actively supported transportation safety issues that help create new laws and strengthen existing laws.
- Media - Awarded to media representatives or news outlets that help encourage traffic safety through fair and accurate reporting or programming.
- Edgar P. Layman, Jr. Award for Motor Carrier Safety - Presented for advancing transportation safety in the motor carrier industry through educational programs and activities.
- Motorcycle Safety - Awarded to an individual or group that educates motorists and motorcyclists about motorcycle safety.
- Occupant Protection - Granted for promoting safety belt or child safety seat use through innovative programs and activities.
- E. Wallace Timmons Award for Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety - Presented for advancing safe walking and bicycling behaviors.
- Public Transportation Safety - Presented for contributions made in educating drivers and riders about safe public transportation practices.
- Pupil Transportation Safety - Granted for encouraging, educating and promoting student transportation safety.
- Rail Safety - Awarded for fostering safety on freight or passenger rail systems.
- Water Safety - Granted for contributions made in improving safety for swimmers, boaters and fishermen.
- Youth Traffic Safety - Presented to individuals or groups that educate children and teens about the importance of traffic safety.
To download a nomination form and obtain eligibility requirements, click here (PDF).
Entries must be postmarked by February 27, 2009. Winners will be notified by May 31, 2009.
Nominations may be submitted by mail to:
The Governor's Transportation Safety Awards c/o Audrey Odum, Room 617 Post Office Box 27412 Richmond, Virginia 23269-0001
Liberty University names new police chief
February 17, 2009 | Virginia News
Liberty University named its new police chief this week — Col. Richard D. Hinkley, a 1981 alumnus. Hinkley replaces retired Virginia State Police Capt. Howard Gregory.
Nearly 30 years ago, Col. Richard D. Hinkley joined Liberty University’s police department. Now, he’s serving his first days as police chief.
Hinkley was named the school’s new police chief last week, Chancellor Jerry Falwell Jr. said Tuesday.
“He just has a deep understanding of Liberty and how the community works,” Falwell said of Hinkley.
Former Police Chief Howard Gregory retired last week after serving as head of the department for about a year, Falwell said.
Hinkley, 53, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1973-1977 before attending Liberty (then Liberty Baptist College). He joined Liberty’s police department in 1979 and graduated from LU with a degree in youth ministries in 1981. He worked in security at Liberty until 1990, attaining the rank of lieutenant.
From 1990 to 1996, he served with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office in New York, first as a corrections officer and then as a deputy.
Hinkley returned to Liberty in fall of 1996 and has served the Liberty University Police Department in the areas of patrol, training, supervision, administration, K-9, and as a School Resource Officer for Liberty Christian Academy. He was promoted to major in May 2008 and was responsible for all training and oversight of administrative functions of the LUPD.
Hinkley said he hopes to move the department’s roughly 60 officers to a “community policing approach.”
Visibility on campus is one form of crime prevention, said Hinkley, whose father was a police officer in Michigan, and his son, Joel Hinkley, works as an officer with the Lynchburg Police Department.
“When there’s some real dire emergency, we may make an arrest,” Hinkley said. “But we have a lot of tools to deal with our students in the dorms, talking to RAs, letting them know that we’re there.”
Falwell said that approach was one reason for choosing Hinkley.
“That’s the direction I want to see LUPD go,” Falwell said. “I want it to become more of a student service agency as well as provide security. I thought he’d be the best one to take the department in that direction.”
Sources: Lynchburg News & Advance and Liberty University
U.Va. engineering students designing new body armor
February 17, 2009 | Virginia News
CHARLOTTESVILLE U.Va. student Jeff O'Dell, an Army soldier who has been at war, knows the value of body armor.
"You live in that armor," the second-year biomedicaland mechanical-engineering student said. "You wear it like a T-shirt."
Now O'Dell, with a team of three other University of Virginia second-year engineering students, is working on a new type of body armor that could save the lives of American soldiers.
Amber Alerts coming to iPhone
February 17, 2009 | National News
The iPhone AMBER Alert System is now pending approval and not only provides up-to-the-minute detailed information on on all AMBER Alerts, but revolutionizes the way that sightings are processed.
New Virginia licenses, ID cards coming in March
February 17, 2009 | Virginia News
Virginians will soon have the safest, most secure driver’s licenses and ID cards in the U.S. In spring 2009, DMV will implement new secure driver’s licenses and ID cards and a new issuance process.
The cards will have a new look and feel that includes state-of-the-art security features. Adult licenses will remain horizontal and include an outline of the state capitol building. Cards for those under 21 will be vertical and carry images of Virginia's state flower, the dogwood, and will show the dates that the individual turns 18 and 21. Driver's license banners will have blue lettering; ID card banners will have green lettering; and children's ID card banners will have gold lettering. “Commercial Driver’s License” is displayed in the banner of the CDL licenses. The primary photo will be black and white.
The most notable of the security features is a clear window, containing a black and white photograph of the cardholder, visible from the front and back of the card. Virginia's will be the third such driver’s license worldwide and the first in the U.S. to carry this feature. Other security features include laser engraved polycarbonate construction, raised lettering in the customer number, date of birth, expiration date and signature fields and an ultraviolet (UV) feature displaying the state seal. These features make the cards difficult to counterfeit.
When Virginians apply for or renew driver's licenses or ID cards in a DMV customer service center, they will not receive the new credential during their visit. The new process will be phased in and by mid-summer 2009, all driver's licenses and ID cards will be mailed to customers.
Virginia driver's who meet the requirements to renew driver’s licenses will retain their old Virginia driver’s licenses and receive a temporary driving permit. Out of state driver’s licenses will be invalidated with a hole punched through the expiration date. Virginians who meet the requirements for an ID card will retain their old ID and will be issued a receipt. The temporary driving permit and receipt will not serve as identification. Temporary permits are valid for 30 days but customers should receive their cards by mail in about five business days.
Licenses and ID cards will be mailed to customers from a central location in Danville. Central issuance will eliminate the appeal for nonresidents to attempt to illegally obtain Virginia licenses and will reduce the risks of fraud and use of false addresses. It is essential that customers provide DMV with their current mailing addresses.
The new design, security features and issuance process will make Virginia's driver's licenses and ID cards one of the most secure and trusted state-issued credentials in the nation.
Between March and July 2009, customers will begin experiencing the enhanced process and receiving the new secure credentials by mail. Currently issued driver’s licenses and ID cards will remain valid until expiration dates.
By March, law enforcement agencies will receive a training package from DMV’s division of Law Enforcement Services. The package will include more detailed information about new secure driver’s licenses and ID cards.
For more information, visit www.dmvNOW.com or contact DMV Director of Law Enforcement Don Boswell at or (804) 367-2994.
Flyer Illustrating New Virginia Driver's Licenses & ID Cards (PDF)
Training video on Virginia gangs available
February 16, 2009 | Virginia News
The Office of Attorney General Robert McDonnell has produced a training and public education DVD on Virginia gangs. The video is an excellent tool for training law enforcement officers and for educating community groups about the origins and dangers of gang activity.
There is a limited supply of these videos, so orders will be accepted only from law enforcement agencies. Please use the attached form to request your copy from the Attorney General's office.
GANG VIDEO ORDER FORM (PDF)
A workplace reunion for father and son
February 12, 2009 | Virginia News
Petersburg police Detective Claiborne Hamilton (left) and Petersburg police Sgt. Chris Walker’s relationship was confirmed recently by a DNA test.
Cyber-Dating Out… “Sexting” In
February 11, 2009 | National News
STAFFORD, Va. — Courting lovers by sending candy and flowers is passé. Teens now have found a new way to lure the object of their affection: “sexting”. Sexting is the sending of nude photos of oneself to a boyfriend, girlfriend, crush or casual acquaintance from cellular phones, with or without a sexually explicit message.
According to a study published last month, 20 percent of 13 – 19 year olds admitted to having transmitted explicit images of themselves over the phone or e-mail. Additionally, 48 percent said that they have received sexually suggestive e-mails or text messages. Over half the girls who “sexted” stated that it was due to pressure from boyfriends, revealed a survey by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.
“Trust me, a lot of couples do it. It’s just like another form of sex,” the New York Post quoted a 15-year-old high school sophomore from New Jersey as saying. The girl confessed to having sent 40 naked pictures of herself to her ex-boyfriend in a failed attempt to win him back.
Even social networking websites have not been left untouched by this trend. Facebook and MySpace boasts groups with names like “I’ve Sent Naked Pictures of Myself Over the Phone”, “People Who Take Naked Pictures of Themselves with Their Phones,” and “Practicing Safe Sexting”.
In fact, teens who indulge in sexting are least bothered by the maligning of their reputations.
Recently six Pennsylvania students landed in jail after nude pictures that had circulated around their school were confiscated from a male student’s phone.
This type of activity is occurring in Stafford County. The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office investigated 14 cases during the 2007 – 2008 school year. From September through December, 2008 of the 2008 – 2009 school year, 8 cases were investigated. There have been additional cases initiated since the winter vacation ended.
The Code of Virginia has specific laws prohibiting this activity. The taking of a sexually explicit pictures of a child is manufacturing child pornography. The transmission (sending of that picture electronically or otherwise) is distribution of child pornography. Possessing such pictures is possession of child pornography. The Code of Virginia, as it relates to these crimes, considers a child any person under the age of eighteen. These crimes are felonies, maximum punishments range from 5 years to twenty years in prison. Some of the crimes have a mandatory minimum sentence of five years that cannot be suspended or reduced.
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office recommends that parents be aware of their children’s activities online and on their cellular telephones, and make them aware of the possible legal consequences of these activities. An additional factor is the potential impact that a felony conviction can have on a young persons’ future, including college and career plans.
Inquiries about this release may be directed to Detective Darryl Wells, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, at 540-658-4450.
RELATED LINKS:
“Sexting" Shockingly Common Among Teens (CBS NEWS)
SURVEY: “Sex and Tech: Results from a Survey of Teens and Young Adults” (The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy)
Double Blow for Police: Less Cash, More Crime
February 10, 2009 | National News
The nation's economic trouble has hit state and local law enforcement, with two out of three large departments reporting budget cuts or hiring freezes. And at the same time, leaders at more than a quarter of the 233 departments that responded to a survey by the Police Executive Research Forum say they are noticing an uptick in property crime that they blame, at least in part, to economic unrest.
Newport News chief says reporting crimes online will free up police time
February 9, 2009 | Virginia News
Chief Jim Fox says it would reduce the number of calls officers answer.
Faced with looming budget cuts, the Newport News Police Department is encouraging more people to report crimes online to free up officer time.
Ashland Police conduct “Safe & Sober Teen Driving Event”
February 6, 2009 | Virginia News
On Saturday, January 31, 2009, the Ashland Police Department and Hanover County Sheriff’s Office hosted a Safe and Sober Teen Driving Event in the Ashland/Hanover Shopping Center.
Officers educated more than 30 teen drivers as to the dangers and consequences of driving impaired. Teen volunteers wore “fatal vision goggles” while maneuvering a golf cart through traffic cones to simulate the effects that alcohol has on a person who operates a motor vehicle under the influence. Officers also offered field sobriety tests to the volunteers after they complete the driving course.
This was a very successful event and a special thanks to the media for covering this important event and to Mother Against Drunk Drivers and the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Board for providing information for all of the participants who braved the chilly weather Saturday morning.
If you would like more information about this event please contact the Ashland Police Department at (804) 798-1227 or visit us at www.ashlandpolice.us
Photos of the event are online at http://photos.vachiefs.org/gallery/7303280_RF2d7.
In 2007, alcohol-impaired-driving crashes accounted for 32 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities. On Super Bowl Sunday (12:01 a.m. Sunday to 5:59 a.m. Monday), 48 percent of the fatalities occurred in crashes where a driver or motorcycle rider had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .08 or higher.
Designating a sober driver should be on the top of everyone’s Super Bowl party list.
###
Media Contact:
Lieutenant J. F. Shelhorse
Public Information Officer
Ashland Police Department
(804) 798-1227
E-mail:
Va. police warn against further cuts in state law enforcement budget
February 6, 2009 | VACP
By Sara Griffith, The Examiner
RICHMOND – Police officers from across Virginia gathered at the state Capitol on Thursday to urge lawmakers against further cuts in law enforcement funding, saying a drop in funding would undermine their ability to preserve safety and security within their communities.
“In most of our communities, we need to be increasing the number of law enforcement personnel,” said Police Chief Charlie T. Deane of Prince William County.
Deane and other police chiefs said the proposed cuts likely would result in potential layoffs, pay cuts and less overtime and training.
“These are services that must be protected despite difficult economic times,” said Police Chief Tim Longo of Charlottesville.
Gov. Tim Kaine has proposed cutting the Aid to Localities with Police Departments program 7 percent as part of his plan to close a $3 billion shortfall in the state budget.
Total state spending for police departments accounts for almost 2,800 officers statewide, according to a survey from the Virginia Municipal League.
Waynesboro Police Chief Doug Davis said state funds account for about 25 percent of his budget and provide salaries for more than 19 of his 51 officers.
Police say a drop in street presence of officers could lead to an increase in crime.
“Cuts to [police funds] have already affected the ability of Virginia’s law enforcement community to provide their services,” said Police Chief Rick Clark of Galax. “Further cuts will result in visible differences in the services they provide.”
Many departments across the state are already beginning to feel the effect of the national recession.
Davis said his operating budget fell by 13.7 percent this year so far.
“[Officers are] performing services to a community for far less money and far fewer resources than are required to safely and effectively carry out their mission,” Longo said.
Arresting Trend: Economic Woes Hit Cops
February 5, 2009 | National News
Survey: Tanking Economy Squeezing Manpower, Resources From Local Law Enforcement
Across the country, the money crunch has gotten so severe that police departments, which are usually the last targeted for budget cuts, have started to feel the economic hard times.
The results of a survey of 233 major police and sheriff's departments released to ABC News show that cities are resorting to law enforcement hiring freezes, potential layoffs and overtime cuts as means to push back against budget crises.
Virginia Beach crime rate falls to 40-year low
February 5, 2009 | Virginia News
The rate of Part I crimes in 2008 was 31.8 per 1,000 residents, the lowest rate since 1967. Part I crimes include violent and property crimes. Violent crimes, including homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault, decreased about 5 percent in 2008 compared with the previous year.
Chesapeake’s Citizen Police Academy lets citizens see how police work
February 5, 2009 | Virginia News
Mike Kirsch is amazed by all of the split-second decisions police officers have to make.
As the course coordinator for Chesapeake's Citizens Police Academy, he has learned a lot about how the police department and police officers operate.
It's information that can benefit every citizen, said Kirsch.
Chesapeake citizens will have that opportunity this spring when the Chesapeake Police Department hosts the academy's 24th session. It begins April 6 and will be hosted by the 1st precinct in Great Bridge.
Va. House backs bill to let State Police chaplains invoke Jesus
February 4, 2009 | Virginia News
By TYLER WHITLEY / Richmond Times-Dispatch The House of Delegates today approved a bill that would allow State Police chaplains to pray in the name of Jesus Christ after an emotional floor debate in which delegates quoted the Bible and Thomas Jefferson.
Last year the superintendent of the Virginia State Police ordered chaplains to deliver nondenominational prayers at such functions as trooper graduation ceremonies and the annual memorial service for fallen officers. Six chaplains resigned in protest.
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, who defended the action by Superintendent of State Police W. Steven Flaherty, says chaplains could continue to perform their ministerial duties and if they don't want to make a nondenominational prayer, they don't have to.
The bill's sponsor, Del. Charles W. Carrico Sr., R-Grayson, said today that not allowing such prayers would violate freedom of speech and freedom of religion.
Del. Robert G. Marshall, R-Prince William, pointed out that prayers opening each daily session of the General Assembly frequently invoke the name of Jesus.
Two Jewish delegates, Adam P. Ebbin and David L. Englin, both Alexandria Democrats, spoke against the bill.
Cash-strapped states mull seat belt law changes
February 4, 2009 | National News
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Drivers better buckle up or pay the price: More cash-strapped states want to give law enforcement officers the authority to pull over motorists just for not wearing their seat belts.
More than a dozen states that are considering making the switch to primary seat-belt enforcement laws need to do so before July to be eligible for millions in federal money.
House of Representatives approves National Center for Campus Safety
February 3, 2009 | National News
WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Tuesday approved creation of an office in the Justice Department to help university security forces train for and prevent violent incidents such as those that hit Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois University in recent years.
Tough financial times loom for Staunton area police
February 3, 2009 | Virginia News
STAUNTON — After nearly four decades with the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office — 10 of them as sheriff — Randy Fisher said his department’s looming budget crisis is the worst he has ever seen and warned that jobs losses may be on the horizon.
In Staunton, the budget pinch also is expected to be felt. Jim Williams, Staunton’s chief of police, said he doesn’t expect his department to lose any positions in the upcoming budget, but noted, “Certainly there’s going to have to be some tough decisions made. There’s no question there’s going to be budget reductions.”
As it stands, the city’s Police Department is short six positions with three people overseas for military duty and three other positions, two police officers and a 911 dispatcher, frozen, Williams said. Its 599 Fund, a state-funded money stream for the department, at best will supply $938,000 this year, down about $42,000 from the year before.
McDonnell quits as attorney general to run full time for governor
February 3, 2009 | Virginia News
Virginia Attorney General Robert F. McDonnell announced this morning that he's quitting as attorney general and will step down Feb. 20.
Va. Senate again votes against closing gun-show loophole
February 3, 2009 | Virginia News
A bill that would require nearly all firearms purchasers at gun show to undergo criminal background checks failed to clear the Virginia Senate for the second time in two days.
Sen. Bill 1257, sponsored by Sen. Henry L. Marsh, III, D-Richmond, was defeated by a vote of 21-19. Five Democratic senators from rural areas voted against the measure, while two Republican Senators voted in favor.
K-9 unit a big part of Lynchburg PD
January 31, 2009 | Virginia News
The large German shepherd pressed his nose through the grate separating him from the front seat of the sport utility vehicle last week and whimpered softly.
The dog, named Charlie, was visibly anxious as he watched his handler, Lynchburg Police Officer Chip Woody, help another officer with a person she had stopped. He started barking when Woody began to search the man.
Senate panel clears bill to raise cost of vanity license plates
January 30, 2009 | Virginia News
The cost of getting a vanity license plate in Virginia could double under a bill cleared yesterday by the Senate Transportation Committee.
Senate Bill 1167, sponsored by Sen. John Watkins, R-Powhatan, would give the Department of Motor Vehicles the authority to charge motorists up to $20 a year to maintain or purchase personalized license plates. The current fee for such plates is $10.
Additionally, two bills that dramatically increase the requirements of seat-belt usage and the ability to enforce violations of the law cleared the committee.
Martinsville area law enforcement could face staff, service cuts
January 30, 2009 | Virginia News
Henry County and Martinsville sheriff’s offices fear losses of manpower and possibly services as a result of the state’s deepening economic crisis.
Martinsville Police Chief Mike Rogers referred questions to Martinsville City Manager Clarence Monday, who said it is too early in the state budget process to estimate the impact proposed cuts will have on the local budget.
However, under Kaine’s proposal, 7 percent, or $69,743, would be cut from the city’s share of 599 funds, Monday said of state funds that help offset the costs of providing a police department. The city also contributes funds to the police department.
Newport News police want teens to text them about crime
January 30, 2009 | Virginia News
Police want teens in this city to text message them with crime tips.
The department has established an e-mail address that will be monitored by officers who will make sure various people in the department are given the information, a police news release says.
Gun show loophole bill advances in Senate
January 29, 2009 | Virginia News
A bill that would require some people who purchase guns from private sellers at gun shows to submit to criminal background checks advanced in the state Senate today.
Senate Bill 1257, sponsored by Sen. Henry L. Marsh III, D-Richmond and Sen. Janet D. Howell, D-Fairfax, passed by voice vote on its second reading before the full chamber. It could come up for a final Senate vote tomorrow.
Portsmouth sheriff cuts services, demands better pay scales
January 26, 2009 | Virginia News
Watson last month publicly gave city leaders until the first of the year to address making his deputies' pay comparable to others in the region or he'd pull his inmate crews. He objected to being left out of efforts to raise the pay of city public-safety workers. He said low pay was costing him too many deputies to other cities because they needed to "feed their families."
Deputies also have stopped setting up radar traps and patrolling school zones for speeders, although Watson said they'll still stop someone if they witness unsafe behavior, such as reckless driving.
Cell-phone proposal clears Senate panel
January 23, 2009 | Virginia News
A bill that would prohibit motorists from using cell phones that do not have hands-free accessories while driving cleared the Senate Transportation Committee yesterday.
"Basically it's about distracted driving," said Sen. Patricia S. Ticer, D-Alexandria, sponsor of Senate Bill 874. Ticer cited statistics showing that drivers are four times more likely to get into a motor-vehicle accident when they are speaking on a cell phone.
The committee, however, narrowly rejected another motor-vehicle safety bill (SB 970) that would allow police to pull over vehicles when the driver or front seat passengers are not using safety belts.
Va. Senate committee passes death penalty expansion
January 22, 2009 | Virginia News
The Senate Courts Committee advanced one bill to expand the death penalty to those who assist in a murder but don't do the actual killing and another to allow it for those who kill a fire marshal or his assistant while on the job.
Grad. student killed at Va. Tech; suspect in custody
January 22, 2009 | Virginia News
Steger: VT slaying ‘isolated, very personal tragedy’
Regarding last night's killing, campus Police Chief Wendell Flinchum said both the suspect and the victim were international students from Asia who apparently knew each other. The identity of the victim has not been released yet as officials try to reach her family. The suspect was identified late last night as Haiyang Zhu, 25, from China.
Flinchum said campus police received a 911 call at 7:06 p.m. Wednesday about a woman being assaulted in the Au Bon Pain cafe on the first floor of the Graduate Life Center. When an officer arrived he found Zhu and arrested him and retrieved the knife believed to be the murder weapon. The victim was already dead.
Violent crime drops for third consecutive year in Newport News
January 22, 2009 | Virginia News
Violent crime in Newport News dropped last year and police are attributing the drop partly to partnerships formed with the community.
In 2008, the city saw a one percent decrease in violent crime, including drops in the number of homicides, rapes, burglaries and auto thefts, police wrote in a news release. The number of homicides dropped from 28 to 19.
Tasers not heart risk, study finds
January 15, 2009 | National News
Long considered controversial and possibly deadly, police stun guns received a clean bill of health from a medical study released today by the Annals of Emergency Medicine.
The three-year study found no links between the 50,000-volt weapons and fatal heart attacks.
Supreme Court says evidence is valid despite police error
January 15, 2009 | National News
By MARK SHERMAN Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Supreme Court said Wednesday that evidence obtained after illegal searches or arrests based on simple police mistakes may be used to prosecute criminal defendants.
The justices split 5-4 along ideological lines to apply new limits to the court's so-called exclusionary rule, which generally requires evidence to be suppressed if it results from a violation of a suspect's Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable searches or seizure.
Police have to cut cell phones
January 15, 2009 | Virginia News
HOPEWELL — Hopewell police officers recently had to exchange their cell phones for old fashioned pagers.
An Internal Revenue Service investigation of the city found that some police officers used the phones to make personal calls while on duty — calls that would be subject to taxation. The IRS also demanded that officers keep exact logs of all their calls, incoming and outgoing.
“Our officers don’t really make personal calls, except to maybe let their wives know that they may be coming home late,” Police Chief Steven D. Martin said. “But the IRS considers those calls personal and they are taxable.”
FOIA Council recommends weapons legislation
January 14, 2009 | Virginia News
The Freedom of Information Advisory Council recommended legislation yesterday that would prevent the public from getting the names of concealed weapons permit holders from the Virginia State Police. The public could continue to get names from local Circuit Courts.
The proposed legislation stems from a controversy in 2007 in which The Roanoke Times published on its Web site the names and addresses of 135,000 Virginia residents who have obtained court permission to carry concealed handguns.
Challenging Session Ahead in Va. General Assembly
January 13, 2009 | Virginia News
Budget-balancing — job number one of the 2009 General Assembly — could require something old (spending cuts), something new (higher taxes), something borrowed (debt-backed bonds) and something blue (Democrats).
Time, money short in 2009, state leaders say
January 13, 2009 | Virginia News
The primary issues facing last year's General Assembly will lead the docket again this year, with two big differences: This year there's little money to address state concerns and less time to do it in.
During even years, state legislators meet for a 60-day regular session and reconvene in April to follow up on unfinished business, mainly the state's biennial budget. Lawmakers met for two additional sessions in 2008 to address budget concerns and transportation needs.
Hickory, NC draws ex-chiefs
January 11, 2009 | National News
3 former police bosses from elsewhere retire in area and sometimes meet with city's chief.
Hickory's mild winters and low crime rate are attracting a new breed of retirees – former police chiefs.
At least three retired chiefs call the Hickory area home, bringing with them almost a century of law enforcement experience. The three men, from Connecticut, Missouri and New York, have traded snow shovels for sweet tea and barbecue.
