Virginia Police Chiefs Recognize Seventy Officers with 2025 Awards for Lifesaving

On September 25, 2024, members of the Blacksburg Police Department's SWAT team were participating in training in Radford, VA. While transitioning between training sites, officers observed a person in a mental health crisis leap from the Memorial Bridge in Radford into the New River.

Officers immediately stopped and observed the lifeless subject in the water below the bridge and began emergency communications with SWAT operators in the area. Officers called for local resources to respond but also initiated immediate lifesaving action. Lt. K.V. Craver, Ofc. E.R. Howard, Sgt. G.J. Ellis, and Ofc. T.A. Reed were immediately in the water swimming to the unconscious individual while other SWAT members were gathering supplies for a water rescue.

The individual was more than halfway across the river, floating quickly downstream. Officers in the water were able to get to the unresponsive individual and swim him back to the riverbank, maintaining spinal preservation procedures. The individual clearly had extensive injuries from the fall. The officers provided emergency first aid until the rescue squad arrived. Officers were over a steep embankment on the river, providing medical care that was well beyond a normal police officer's capability. The individual was placed in c-spine and back-boarded, where he was removed from the bottom of the riverbank by two lines of Blacksburg SWAT operators and Radford Police Officers. The individual was transported by rescue to a local hospital for emergency medical care.

Without the immediate actions of all of these operators, it is highly unlikely that the individual would have survived.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Lieutenant Kale V. Craver, Sergeant Garrison J. Ellis, Officer Eric R. Howard, and Officer Tanner A. Reid with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Chesterfield County Police Department
Officer Shawn J. Wilson

On April 7, 2025, Officers Shawn Wilson, Harrison Wells, and Sgt. Scott Wright responded to the Old Bermuda Hundred overpass to Interstate 95 in Chesterfield County for a call of a female sitting on the guard rail. During the officers’ response, the communications center received multiple calls confirming a female precariously sitting on the guardrail overpass. The caller requested that Chesterfield Police and Virginia State Police quickly respond. While this was happening, the female’s grandfather called police and advised that the subject was his granddaughter, Jessica. He further stated that Jessica and he had an argument which prompted her to jump out of his truck and sit on the overpass ledge.

Officers arrived and positioned their cars to block traffic. Other family members were present, which seemed to agitate Jessica. Officers separated the family and Officer Wells started a dialogue with Jessica as Sgt. Wright helped monitor the family and manage the incident. A plan was quickly developed where Officer Wells would continue talking with Jessica. This helped her remain focused on both Officer Wells and Sgt. Wright while Officer Wilson quickly moved out of her line of sight. Officer Wilson then approached from Jessica’s blind side, grabbing her by the arms and removing her from the ledge. Jessica was taken for a mental health evaluation and was eventually transported to Tri Cities Hospital.

The officers are commended for their actions in saving Jessica’s life that day. This situation was most dangerous at the moment Officer Wilson restrained Jessica and removed her from ledge with the other officers’ help.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Shawn J. Wilson with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

City of Fairfax Police Department
Master Police Officer Scott Bates
Police Officer First Class Alexander Zurbach

On January 28, 2025, units were dispatched to a disorderly call on Chain Bridge Road. A homeowner contacted the police and stated that a male subject had jumped over his fence to get into his backyard. The homeowner was watching the male subject on his home security camera system.

The male subject found a covered outdoor swimming pool and began to loosen the strapping on the pool cover. The homeowner confronted the male subject that was in his backyard and the subject stated "Kill Me, Kill Me." The male subject removed his hoodie and entered the swimming pool (the water temperature was close to freezing this day with a thin layer of ice on the surface of the water). The homeowner relayed to emergency communications that the male subject was under the pool cover and was no longer visible.

Law enforcement units from multiple agencies quickly arrived on scene. MPO Bates, MPO Mills, MPO Lawlor, PFC A. Zurbach, Lt. Smith, Fire Marshall Bullock and Fairfax County Deputy Sheriff W.F. Douglas began working together to locate the male who initially could not be seen.

The male was spotted unresponsive underwater on the bottom of the swimming pool. Lt. Smith utilized a pole to break the ice on the surface of the water and coordinated the rescue response on scene until medics arrived. PFC Zurbach and MPO Bates entered the frigid water to rescue the male subject and to render aid. MPO Bates and PFC Zurbach brought the male to the surface and officers helped to remove him from the water to immediately begin CPR and life saving measures.

MPO Mills, MPO Lawlor, Fire Marshal Bullock and Fairfax County Deputy Sheriff W.F. Douglas took turns administering cycles of CPR. MPO Lawlor utilized an AED defibrillator device in an attempt to restore the heart rhythm of the male victim. City of Fairfax Rescue Unit 403 arrived and took over CPR and lifesaving measures. The unknown male victim was transported to INOVA Fairfax Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Police Officer Scott Bates and Police Officer First Class Alexander Zurbach with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Danville Police Department
Sergeant Richard P. Wright
Officer Zakary P. Clay
Officer Deandre J. Edmonds
Officer David A. Guido Flores
Officer William G. Headley

On February 17, 2025, a Danville Police officer was conducting a follow-up investigation related to a hit-and-run incident. During this encounter, it became clear that the individual involved was experiencing a mental health crisis and needed immediate intervention. While the officer worked compassionately to facilitate transport to the Crisis Center, the suspect—without warning—produced a firearm and opened fire. The officer was struck six times during the sudden and violent exchange, including five rounds to her legs and one to her lower abdomen. Despite the severity of the injuries and the element of surprise, the officer courageously returned fire.

Officer William G. Headley was the first additional officer to arrive on scene. Without hesitation and with clear disregard for his own safety, he immediately assessed the officer’s extensive injuries and rendered lifesaving aid. Officer Headley’s calm under pressure, tactical awareness, and medical intervention played a decisive role in stabilizing the officer for rapid transport to advanced medical care. 

Simultaneously, Sergeant Richard P. Wright, Officer Zakary P. Clay, Officer Deandre J. Edmonds, and Officer David A. Guido Flores responded with urgency. They rapidly secured the scene, controlled the environment, and began administering aid to the suspect, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds because of the exchange of gunfire. With the same level of care and precision afforded to their wounded colleague, these officers rendered effective medical aid, initiated trauma care, and ensured the suspect was safely turned over to Emergency Medical Services upon arrival. 

The physical and emotional stress of responding to an officer-down call—while also being tasked with preserving the life of the individual responsible—cannot be overstated. In this harrowing moment, these five officers rose above the gravity of the situation, prioritizing care and calm where panic could have easily taken hold. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Sergeant Richard P. Wright, Officer Zakary P. Clay, Officer Deandre J. Edmonds, Officer David A. Guido Flores, and Officer William G. Headley with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Fairfax County Police Department
PFC Alexander C. Battani
PFC Thomas R. Armel
PFC Andrew L. Burch

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, PFC Alexander Battani, serving as the School Resource Officer (SRO) at West Potomac High School, responded promptly to a disturbance in a hallway. Upon arrival, PFC Battani assessed the situation, noting signs of a fight, blood on the floor, and bystanders indicating that a student was armed with a knife. He immediately radioed for additional assistance and took decisive action to locate the victim, who was found lying in a pool of blood.

PFC Battani administered immediate first aid using available supplies, applying pressure to the victim’s multiple stab wounds to control the bleeding. PFC Armel and PFC Burch, who brought Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) kits, began applying chest seals to the wounds in the upper and lower extremities while continuing to manage the victim’s bleeding. Following the arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the victim was transported to INOVA Fairfax Hospital in life-threatening condition.

Once PFC Armel and PFC Burch took over the life-saving measures, PFC Battani redirected his focus to the offender, who had been subdued by school staff. He successfully placed the suspect into custody and secured the weapon.

The Fairfax County Police Department is proud to have many courageous and compassionate officers. PFC Battani, PFC Armel, and PFC Burch exemplify these qualities every day. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor PFC Alexander C. Battani, PFC Thomas R. Armel, and PFC Andrew L. Burch with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Hanover County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff Troy A. Breeden

Hanover County Deputy Troy Breeden responded to a shooting call for service on November 16, 2024. One person was down and suffering from a gunshot wound, and another person was one street over, claiming he shot someone who attacked him with a weapon. Deputy Breeden responded to the victim’s location to render aid. Because of the chaos and conflicting information, it was not immediately apparent who was armed or who the victim was. Deputy Breeden made a quick and accurate assessment of the situation and decided it was safe enough to provide medical attention to the person suffering from the gunshot wound. Deputy Breeden noticed a gunshot wound to the back and immediately recognized the need for a chest seal. He requested for responding units to bring him a chest seal while he provided direct pressure on the wound. As Deputy Breeden was starting to seal up the victim, EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported the victim to VCU Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries.

Deputy Breeden helped save the life of the gunshot victim through his quick assessment and first aid treatment of the injury. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Deputy Sheriff Troy A. Breeden with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Hanover County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Sheriff Joseph S. Gomes

On Thursday, December 12, Deputy Gomes was traveling west on Mechanicsville Turnpike, when he came across a wrecked Range Rover that was on fire. The driver was trapped inside. After Deputy Gomes used his fire extinguisher to put the fire out, he noticed a second vehicle underneath the Range Rover. The driver of the second vehicle was also trapped. Once on scene, Hanover Fire and EMS were able to extricate both drivers. Both drivers were transported to VCU Medical Center due to the severity of the crash. Deputy Gomes’ actions of extinguishing the fire saved the lives of both drivers.

For his quick, courageous, and life-saving actions, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Deputy Sheriff Joseph S. Gomes with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

James City County Police Department
Master Police Officer Chad Perrigan 

On August 26, 2022, James City County Officer Chad Perrigan responded to a vehicle crash involving a truck that flipped over and landed on its roof. The sole occupant suffered a severe head injury and a compound fracture to his arm, rendering him unable to extricate himself from his seatbelt. Compounding the danger, gasoline leaked from the damaged tank into the passenger compartment.

Officer Chad Perrigan acted instinctively, reaching into the vehicle to cut the seatbelt, safely lower the driver, and collaborate with fire department personnel to extract the patient from the wreckage. Following the rescue, Officer Perrigan had to change his uniform because he had been exposed to hazardous fluids during the operation. Officer Perrigan demonstrated exceptional composure, adhered to his training, and performed admirably in a highly stressful and life-threatening situation.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Police Officer Chad Perrigan with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Lynchburg Police Department
Police Officer III Peter Begley

In April 2024, Lynchburg Police Officer III Peter Begley was involved in a nighttime high-speed vehicle pursuit that ended near the James River. The suspect’s vehicle was riding on rims after a tire deflation device deflated them. After the car was no longer operable, the suspect, desperate to escape, fled on foot and jumped into the dark, frigid water. However, the water was deeper than she expected, the current was strong, and she couldn’t swim. She went into shock, began to yell for help and was in immediate danger of being swept downstream and drowning.

Officer Begley didn’t hesitate. Knowing there wasn’t time to wait for the Fire Department or rescue boats, he made the selfless decision to enter the dangerous river himself. As he reached her, she lost her grip on the log keeping her afloat. In that critical moment, Peter navigated the cold, rushing water and grabbed ahold of her. He was able to make his way back to the shoreline with the suspect and was able to pull her to safety. She was treated for hypothermia by EMS but was otherwise uninjured.

Officer Begley’s actions that day saved a life. His courage, quick thinking, and unwavering commitment to protecting others reflect the kind of officer that he is.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Police Officer III Peter Begley with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Manassas City Police Department
Master Police Officer Dustin Hogue
K9 "Bane"
Senior Police Officer Cody Stadtman 

On March 26, 2025, Manassas police officers, in coordination with the Manassas Park Police Department and Prince William County Police Department, responded to a high-risk incident involving the theft of a vehicle and the abduction of a six-year-old autistic child. The suspect, a convicted felon, fled the scene in a grey Chevrolet Impala with the child inside, prompting an immediate and highly coordinated law enforcement response across multiple jurisdictions. 

Lieutenant Plourde and Sergeants Shillingburg, Armas, and Crouse led the tactical response. Sergeant Crouse, who was aware that certain Chevrolet vehicles are equipped with OnStar technology, contacted OnStar, verified her credentials, and provided the necessary vehicle information. This rapid response capability, enabled by OnStar's GPS and cellular technology, proved critical in locating the suspect and recovering the abducted child. 

The vehicle was located on Andrew Drive in Manassas Park. MPO Hogue and K9 Bane were among the first to identify and approach the vehicle, initiating a high-risk stop. The suspect, noncompliant and believed to be armed, ignored commands, and concealed his hands, creating a potentially deadly scenario. SPO Stadtman, displaying exceptional tactical restraint, transitioned from his firearm and deployed his Taser. The arrest team moved in and secured the suspect without injury. A knife was recovered from the suspect's pocket, emphasizing the danger faced by involved staff. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded firearm. 

Upon questioning, the suspect disclosed the child's location. SPO Pinto and Officer Barnes responded to the scene and located the child, who was unharmed and safely reunited with family. Simultaneously, Master Detectives Knight and Agule provided critical investigative support. Detective Knight secured digital evidence and coordinated follow-up tasks, while Detective Agule interviewed witnesses and documented the recovery location.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Police Officer Dustin Hogue, K9 Bane, and Senior Police Officer Cody Stadtman with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Manassas City Police Department
Officer Juan Alvarado
Senior Detective Edgar Diaz
Senior Police Officer Khalia Bowden
Sergeant Luis Armas

On February 23, 2024, the Manassas City Public Safety Communication Center (PSCC) received a 9-1-1 call from a frantic woman reporting a shooting in progress. Public Safety Communication Specialist (PSCS) Alyssa Coulter was the primary call taker and calmly gathered information from the caller, who was hiding under a table due to the "non-stop" gunfire. PSCC Supervisor James Moran assisted as the secondary call taker. PSCS II Matt Bryant and PSCS Ethan Eustace were the assigned dispatchers. The team collectively obtained critical details, including the locations of other occupants and questions about weapons, while coordinating immediate police assistance.

The caller's husband, and six-year-old son were inside the residence. Arriving officers, MPO Barrett, MPO Alvarado, Senior Detective Diaz, SPO Bowden, and Sergeant Armas, entered the residence to ensure occupant safety without knowing the shooter's location. They learned from the caller that her son might have committed suicide in his bedroom. As the officers attempted to assess the situation, they noticed bullet holes in the bedroom door. Suddenly, a gunshot was heard, with a bullet traveling through a wall, narrowly missing the officers and the family.

The officers evacuated and took cover behind police vehicles. While outside the residence and having a clear line of sight of the structure, MPO Barrett observed a green laser, consistent with one being mounted on a firearm, being aimed at police officers and bystanders. During the encounter, to protect the lives of police officers and bystanders' MPO Barrett fired three gunshots at the suspect. The shooter refused commands to exit and barricaded himself.

After several hours, the suspect surrendered and was treated for non-life-threatening wounds and charged with multiple firearms offenses. Thanks to the leadership and communication efforts of all staff involved, no law enforcement or bystander was injured during this critical incident.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Juan Alvarado, Senior Detective Edgar Diaz, Senior Police Officer Khalia Bowden, and Sergeant Luis Armas with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

(The VACP is also proud to honor MPO Shaun Barrett with the VACP Award for Valor.)

Manassas Park Police Department
Officer Jason A. Crites

 On July 24, 2024, Officer J. Crites responded to the report of a suicidal subject in Signal Hill Park. Upon his arrival, Officer Crites located the individual, who was armed with a handgun. As Officer Crites attempted to engage the subject in conversation, the subject held the gun to his head. Officer Crites remained calm and attempted to de-escalate the situation. During the near hour long standoff, Officer Crites demonstrated compassion at the highest of levels. Officer Crites’ patience and willingness to share his own personal journey ultimately led to the subject putting the gun down while still in close proximity. Officer Crites, without hesitation for his own life and safety, left cover and was able to secure the firearm and successfully take the subject into custody for a mental health evaluation. Officer Crites actions directly saved the life of this individual, who was suffering an extreme mental health crisis. A failure to act or action after delay could certainly have led to a tragic outcome.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Jason A. Crites with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Marion Police Department
Sergeant Josh Taylor
Master Patrol Officer Keith Finney
Senior Patrol Officer Jordan Propst

During the devastating floods in September 2024, caused by Hurricane Helene in Marion, Virginia, an 11-year-old boy was swept away by rising floodwater. A large-scale search was launched involving multiple law enforcement agencies, Marion Fire/EMS personnel and regional swift water rescue crews.

The critical moment came when three officers from the Marion Police Department—MPO Keith Finney, SPO Jordan Propst, and Sgt. Josh Taylor—along with Firefighter/EMT Brett Miller of Marion Fire/EMS, located the boy face down in a creek. He was unresponsive and not breathing.

Demonstrating exceptional courage and teamwork, risking being swept away themselves, the officers secured the lifeline with their bodies while Firefighter/EMT Miller entered the dangerous, fast-moving floodwaters to retrieve the boy. Upon bringing him to safety, the team immediately initiated lifesaving measures. Due to their swift and coordinated response, the boy was successfully revived. He was then transported by ambulance to a waiting helicopter and airlifted to a trauma center for further treatment.

The bravery, quick action, and professionalism displayed by MPO Keith Finney, SPO Jordan Propst, Sgt. Josh Taylor, and Firefighter/EMT Brett Miller were responsible for saving the child’s life. Their actions are a testament to their training, dedication, and heroism under extreme conditions.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Sergeant Josh Taylor, Master Patrol Officer Keith Finney, and Senior Patrol Officer Jordan Propst with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Prince William County Police Department
Police Officer Kristine D. White
Police Officer Jason R. Williams
Master Police Officer Garrett L. Gourlay

Fairfax County Police Department
Police Officer Brian Carter

On September 6, 2024, Officers White and Williams responded to a suspicious person on the train bridge above the Occoquan River next to Route 1 Highway. They located a Person in Crisis (PIC) standing on the edge of the elevated bridge. The officers immediately began to use Crisis Intervention Training skills while speaking with the individual. 

The officers placed themselves at significant personal risk during this incident. The railroad bridge crosses the Occoquan River at a height of at least 70 feet. There are no railings or safety measures in place. The bridge itself has a narrow walkway between two sets of railroad tracks. The rest of the bridge consists of railroad ties with gaps to the water below. The bridge itself is very narrow and affords minimal solid footing.

Officer White and Officer Williams spoke with the individual for over 25 minutes by themselves, as the individual implied, he would jump anytime additional officers approached. Despite efforts to notify train operators of what was taking place, a train crossed the bridge at full speed during the incident, placing all three in significant danger. The officers were forced to a small area on the opposite track while the train passed, and the individual made statements he might throw himself in front of the train. 

As Officers Williams and White established a rapport with the individual, Master Police Officer Gourlay, a Co-Responder unit, arrived, quickly followed by Officer Brian Carter, who serves in the same capacity with the Fairfax County Police Department, along with a Fairfax clinician. Together, the officers arranged for the individual’s father to come out onto the bridge and eventually all four officers were able to convince the individual to step away from the edge and hug his father.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Police Officer Kristine D. White, Police Officer Jason R. Williams, Master Police Officer Garrett L. Gourlay, and Fairfax County Police Officer Brian Carter with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Pulaski Police Department
Major Michael Hudson
Lieutenant Thomas Croteau
Officer Jennifer Lucas
Lieutenant Jamie Brown
Detective Steve McMillan

On April 30, 2025, Officer Jennifer Lucas was on routine patrol and observed that a third-floor balcony of an apartment building was on fire and spreading into the apartment. Officer Lucas notified the Pulaski County Joint 9-1-1 Communications Center of the structure fire. Lieutenant Jamie Brown, Lieutenant Thomas Croteau, Detective Steve McMillian, and Major Michael Hudson arrived on the scene, entered the building, and tried to clear it. They removed all the residents from the bottom floor. Lieutenant Croteau kicked open one door to get a resident out of the apartment. Lieutenant Brown, Detective McMillan, and Officer Lucas went to the second floor, attempting to alert residents, but no one was home. Officer Lucas made it to the third floor to alert any residents of the fire. The smoke was so thick and black that Major Hudson ordered the police officers out of the building, as they were choking on the black smoke. Once outside, Major Hudson and Officer Lucas went to the rear of the building to alert the fire department that not all the apartments had been cleared. A woman on the top floor had broken out her window and yelled for help. Two firemen entered the burning structure with full turnout gear and brought the woman out of the building to safety.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Major Michael Hudson, Lieutenant Thomas Croteau, Officer Jennifer Lucas, Lieutenant Jamie Brown, and Detective Steve McMillan with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Richmond Police Department
Officer Ernest Ford
Officer Dallas Wieser 

On October 15, 2024, officers responded to a residence on East Broad Street for a barricaded subject armed with an axe and a knife. The male subject was experiencing a mental health crisis and had threatened to kill his partner, who was reportedly being held against her will inside the home. 

Officers Dallas Wieser and Chris Powell attempted to communicate with the male subject, who responded aggressively and confirmed that he was armed. Officer Ernest Ford arrived shortly after and provided less-lethal coverage with his taser. Officer Powell coordinated the perimeter, requested additional resources, and maintained dialogue with the suspect. The male continued to refuse to allow the female to leave and made several threats to harm her and responding officers.

Officers John Mitchell and Chris Carey arrived with ballistic shields and long rifles. Sergeants Glenn Gohlke and Robert Misegades also responded and helped coordinate the overall tactical response. 

Officers heard the sounds of a violent struggle and a female screaming. Fearing for her life, officers made the decision to intervene. Officer Chris Carey observed the suspect actively striking the victim with an axe and pushed into the room with the ballistic shield, allowing Officer John Mitchell to take a position and discharge his weapon, striking the suspect. Officer Carey secured the weapon while Officers Wieser and Ford deployed less-lethal options to assist in subduing the suspect. The female victim was rescued and immediately provided with emergency medical aid.

Despite life-saving efforts, the suspect was later pronounced deceased. The victim survived the attack.

The collective actions of Sergeant Gohlke, Sergeant Misegades, and Officers Wieser, Carey, Ford, Powell, and Mitchell reflect the highest level of professionalism and dedication to public safety. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Ernest Ford and Officer Dallas Wieser with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Richmond Police Department
Master Patrol Officer Matthew Cavanaugh
Officer Michael Lockard

On November 9, 2024, at approximately 10:35 a.m., officers responded to a call for service involving a male actively inflicting harm upon himself with a sword.

Officer Michael Lockard was the first to arrive on scene and located the individual standing in the middle of the street with visible lacerations to his neck. Officer Lockard began establishing verbal contact with the subject while updating responding units on the unfolding situation. Upon the arrival of additional officers, they attempted to de-escalate the scene while cautiously following the subject as he continued walking and harming himself.

Suddenly, the male fled briefly before stopping and again began injuring himself. Despite continued efforts to maintain dialogue and gain compliance, the male abruptly drove the sword into his lower abdomen and collapsed.

At that critical moment, Officer Matthew Cavanaugh acted decisively, using a controlled leg sweep to disarm the individual and remove the weapon from his immediate reach. Officer Lockard immediately rendered emergency medical aid to the severely wounded individual until the arrival of the Richmond Fire Department, who assisted with further care. Richmond Ambulance Authority transported the male to VCU Medical Center, where he underwent emergency surgery for life-threatening, self-inflicted injuries.

The swift and coordinated actions of Officers Lockard and Cavanaugh prevented further injury and contributed directly to saving the life of the individual. Their performance under extreme circumstances reflects courage, composure, and dedication to the preservation of life.

Their conduct exemplifies the highest standards of the Richmond Police Department and merits recognition.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Patrol Officer Matthew Cavanaugh and Officer Michael Lockard with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Richmond Police Department
Officer Christopher Duane
Officer George Soongnarata 

On September 14, 2024, Officers Christopher Duane and George Soongnarata responded to a critical incident involving a triple shooting at the Belt Atlantic Apartments. Upon arrival, they encountered a large, agitated crowd and a highly chaotic scene. Despite the volatility, both officers remained calm and acted swiftly to provide immediate aid to one of the victims—a woman suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound.

Amidst the disorder, Officers Duane and Soongnarata applied a tourniquet and pressure dressings to the victim’s injuries. Their coordinated efforts and medical intervention played a vital role in stabilizing the victim until emergency medical services arrived.

Their professionalism, quick decision-making, and composure under pressure were instrumental in saving a life that day. Their actions reflect the highest standards of law enforcement and public service.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Christopher Duane and Officer George Soongnarata with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Richmond Police Department
Officer Justine Hewitt
Officer Kathryn Jasper

On June 25, 2024, Second Precinct Officers Justine Hewitt and Kathryn Jasper responded to a report of a stabbing at a crowded nightclub. The scene remained highly volatile upon their arrival, with music still playing, patrons still present, and the suspect not yet apprehended.

The victim—an employee who had attempted to remove a disruptive patron—had sustained a severe laceration to his arm and was rapidly losing blood. Officers Hewitt and Jasper immediately took command of the scene, ensuring medical services were enroute, calming the crowd, and scanning for the suspect while initiating trauma care.

Recognizing the severity of the wound, the officers applied a tourniquet to the victim’s arm and used direct pressure to control the bleeding. Despite their efforts, the bleeding persisted, and the victim began to lose consciousness. Undeterred, the officers intensified their life-saving efforts, remaining focused and composed until Richmond Ambulance Authority personnel arrived and transported the victim for emergency medical care.

Following the successful apprehension of the suspect and the victim’s eventual recovery, the individual credited Officers Hewitt and Jasper’s immediate response and continued care as the reason he survived the attack.

Their exceptional medical intervention, control of a chaotic scene, and unwavering commitment to saving a life reflect the highest ideals of professional policing.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Officer Justine Hewitt and Officer Kathryn Jasper with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Virginia Beach Police Department
Master Police Officer Bryan T. Kreitzman
Officer Markus P. Brown
Officer Hunter B. Colvin

On January 24, 2025, Officers Colvin and Glessner initiated a traffic stop on Lake Edward Drive during a saturation patrol. The planned patrol operation was being conducted in this area due to the uptick in “ShotSpotter” alerts in this neighborhood. The vehicle stopped in a parking lot in the 700 block of Lake Edwards Drive. Once the vehicle came to a stop, the driver fled on foot and ran behind an apartment building. Officer Glessner and Officer Colvin immediately gave chase. 

As the driver ran behind the building, he immediately turned left towards the tree line and jumped through the trees and into the lake. The officers quickly put out the information and maintained eyes on the driver. Officer M. Brown arrived and threw the life ring to the driver who was submerged in the icy water. Officers immediately requested for rescue and fire to respond due to the freezing temperatures. The air temperature at that time was around 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Upon reaching the edge, Officers M. Brown and B. Kreitzman were at the water’s edge to lift and support the driver, keeping him partially out of the water to prevent him from falling back and becoming submerged in the icy water. Officers H. Colvin, W. Glessner, and D. Durr arrived at the embankment to assist Officers M. Brown and B. Kreitzman. Demonstrating teamwork and determination, Officer H. Colvin lowered himself to the water's edge to secure the subject, alleviating the physical strain on Officers Brown and Kreitzman. 

The selfless and heroic actions of Officers M. Brown, B. Kreitzman, and H. Colvin undoubtedly saved the driver’s life. Their quick thinking and unwavering dedication prevented a tragic outcome, ensuring the driver survived the life-threatening cold temperatures.

Based on these events, I believe Officers M. Brown and B. Kretizman’s, and H. Colvin actions merit the Life Saving Award. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Police Officer Bryan T. Kreitzman, Officer Markus P. Brown, and  Officer Hunter B. Colvin with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.

Virginia State Police
Master Trooper Brian W. Canada
Trooper Jacob A. Culp

On September 27, 2024, in the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation, the raging Nolichucky River unleashed catastrophic flooding that forced approximately 54 patients and staff of Unicoi County Hospital in Erwin, Tennessee, to seek refuge on the hospital’s roof. Ballad Health, the owner of Unicoi County Hospital and provider of medical staffing for Virginia State Police Med-Flight 2, based at the Department’s Abingdon Aviation Base, made an urgent plea to the Virginia State Police for assistance. 

After a rapid assessment of weather conditions and close coordination, two helicopters were dispatched from the Abingdon Base with Master Trooper Brian W. Canada and Trooper Jacob A. Culp piloting the Bell 407. The hospital, buffeted by debris-laden floodwaters, was in peril of structural collapse. Yet, with unwavering resolve, Master Trooper Canada executed a masterful landing on the compromised hospital roof. Demonstrating extraordinary courage, Trooper Culp then exited the helicopter to personally assist with the evacuation of victims.

For hours, Master Trooper Canada skillfully navigated the turbulent skies, making multiple perilous trips to airlift patients to a nearby high school, where local first responders awaited. Throughout these demanding flights, Trooper Culp remained steadfast on the hazardous rooftop. The Master Trooper Canada and Trooper Culp flawlessly coordinated efforts with a second Aviation Division helicopter, the EC-145 (Med-Flight 2), operated by a dedicated civilian flight crew including retired First Sergeant Jeffrey W. Bush, Nurse April Boyd, and Paramedic Wayne Carroll.

VSP helicopters successfully extracted approximately 40 individuals from this dire, life-or-death scenario, delivering them to safety. Master Trooper Brian W. Canada and Trooper Jacob A. Culp exemplify the highest ideals of the Virginia State Police. Their actions on September 27, 2024, were a profound display of bravery, courage, and unwavering professionalism. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Master Trooper Brian W. Canada and Trooper Jacob A. Culp with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Virginia State Police
Trooper Dustin C. Collins
Trooper William B. Deskins

On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene brought devastating floods to Washington County, Virginia, with the Town of Damascus bearing the brunt of the storm's impact. Damascus Police Chief Kermit Turner requested assistance from local law enforcement agencies due to the hazardous conditions caused by the hurricane. Trooper Collins and Trooper Deskins, Area 27 Washington County, responded to assist with what was originally believed to be traffic control due to the flooding. Trooper Collins and Trooper Deskins quickly deployed alongside deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. With the water levels rising rapidly, the situation escalated from traffic control to urgent evacuations. The troopers boarded a Bearcat vehicle to conduct rescue operations, including one particularly challenging hour where an elderly couple was trapped on the second floor of their home, with the first floor submerged and house steps washed away. Demonstrating quick thinking, the troopers instructed the couple to tie bedsheets together and successfully lowered them to safety, transporting them to the town park for medical care. Over the course of their efforts, Trooper Collins and Deskins rescued a total of five individuals from life-threatening situations.

The actions of Trooper Collins and Trooper Deskins during Hurricane Helene exemplify the highest standards of bravery, selflessness, and dedication to public safety. Trooper Collins and Trooper Deskins upheld the core values of the Virginia State Police, displaying exceptional valor in the face of extreme danger. This nomination can be justified by one conversation had amongst Trooper Collins and Deskins during the rescue operation. The Bearcat began to lose ground and Trooper Deskins stated to Trooper Collins, "Cody, I don't think we are going to make it out of this one"; to which Trooper Collins responded, "at least we will be together".

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Trooper Dustin C. Collins and Trooper William B. Deskins with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Virginia State Police
Trooper Michael B. LeSage

On April 20, 2024, Trooper Michael B. LeSage's actions demonstrated his commitment to the public's safety over his own when electing to intervene and disable the vehicle of an intoxicated wrong way driver. Lesage had six seconds from initial observation to execution when he was confronted with a vehicle approaching head-on at highway speeds. His ability to evaluate the situation, formulate a plan, and execute his maneuver without regard for his own safety is nothing short of heroic. 

At approximately 4:04 a.m. on April 20, 2024, Trooper Michael LeSage received a lookout bulletin from Division 5 dispatchers of a wrong way driver traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 64. The lookout was located 4 miles ahead, passing the 250-mile marker in Newport News. Trooper LeSage was stationed at the 246-mile marker crossover and entered the highway in an attempt to locate the vehicle. Trooper LeSage located the vehicle coming directly at him going 70 mph. Trooper LeSage had his emergency equipment activated to try and get the driver stopped, but the wrong way driver continued. Using a technique learned from the videos he had studied from the Florida Highway Patrol, Trooper LeSage positioned his vehicle in a manner that allowed him to make contact with the wrong way driver but deflect the energy of the crash in order to stop the vehicle and prevent the driver from doing any harm to the general public. Trooper LeSage did receive an injury to his left hand. Trooper LeSage climbed out of his vehicle and detained the driver until help arrived. The driver was arrested for DUI-Maiming and transported to Riverside Doctor's Hospital for a blood test before being placed under arrest. 

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Trooper Michael B. LeSage with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving. 

Virginia State Police
Senior Trooper James L. Collins
Senior Trooper Monica D. Hart
Senior Trooper Matthew E. Spalding
Senior Trooper Lucie Vajglova
Trooper Sesaly M. Barden
Trooper Taylor C. Brown
Trooper Justin T. Chappell 

On Thursday, August 15, 2024, troopers were involved in the pursuit of a vehicle linked to the kidnapping of three young children. The biological father had kidnapped the children after stabbing their mother and older sister in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed at high speed in Prince George's County, Maryland, after being located by Senior Trooper James L. Collins, who was joined in the pursuit by Senior Trooper Matthew E. Spalding, Trooper Taylor C. Brown, and closely followed by Senior Trooper Hart.

Upon approaching the vehicle, the troopers were met with a horrifying situation. The father held one of the children up as a shield. Despite this, the troopers successfully apprehended the father and rescued the two boys. However, it was then discovered that the 16-month-old girl was unconscious and bleeding from her head on the backseat floorboard. 

Trooper Barden and Senior Trooper Hart tended to the two young boys who had endured unimaginable trauma within the preceding 24 hours. One of the boys had suffered a broken leg and was in excruciating pain. Trooper Barden and Senior Trooper Hart provided comfort, administering both physical and emotional care. 

Senior Trooper Lucie Vajglova arrived and quickly realized that the third child was missing. The troopers at the scene quickly began searching the vehicle, where they found the third child pinned on the floorboard. The child was extricated and found to be unresponsive.

Trooper Justin T. Chappell performed CPR on the toddler and refused to stop until emergency medical services arrived 15 minutes later. She was airlifted to the Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. but tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.

The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police is proud to honor Senior Trooper James L. Collins, Senior Trooper Monica D. Hart, Senior Trooper Matthew E. Spalding, Senior Trooper Lucie Vajglova, Trooper Sesaly M. Barden, Trooper Taylor C. Brown, and Trooper Justin T. Chappell with the 2025 Award for Lifesaving.