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Middleburg Announces Promotion of Lt. Shaun Jones to Chief of Police
The Town of Middleburg is pleased to announce the promotion of Lieutenant Shaun D. Jones to Chief of Police, effective May 1, 2023. Lt. Jones' appointment comes as Chief AJ Panebianco retires after 11 years of service as Chief of Police in Middleburg. The Town conducted a nationwide recruitment process and held multiple interview panels, including with three currently serving Chiefs of Police.
“During the interview process, Lt. Jones consistently demonstrated a dedication to the highest standards of public safety, community engagement, and officer training and development,” said Danny Davis, Town Manager. “I am grateful for Lt. Jones' commitment to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Middleburg, and I am confident that he will help the Middleburg Police Department reach great success as in its competency and operations.”
The Town of Middleburg's Police Department operates 24/7 and is served by a Chief of Police, Lieutenant, Corporal, and three sworn officers. Middleburg consistently ranks as one of the safest Towns in Virginia, while at the same time hosting tens of thousands of visitors throughout the year at various events.
“The Town Council had the opportunity to interview three extremely qualified candidates, and we unanimously support Lt. Jones' promotion to Chief of Police,” said Mayor Bridge Littleton. “Lt. Jones has shown an unwavering commitment to the citizens of Middleburg, and I look forward to his continued success in this new role.”
Lt. Jones has more than 23 years of law enforcement experience and began his service with the Middleburg Police Department in December 2020. Prior to Middleburg, he served with the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office, the Mary Washington University Police Department, and the Pamunkey Regional Jail. Lt. Jones is a member of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP) and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and he currently teaches training classes on behalf of VACP and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Lt. Jones is a graduate of the 50th Session of the Professional Executive Leadership School (PELS).
“I am honored to be the next Chief of Police in Middleburg, continuing the legacy of community engagement, public safety, and implementing the highest standards of policing,” said Lt. Jones. “Middleburg is a wonderful Town with a deep sense of care within the community, and I look forward to building additional relationships and furthering the well-being of Middleburg's residents and business owners.”