Minutes 02/24/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 1998 (Martinsville) agency." Finally, Mr. Boyle noted that there were three hundred fifty-one law enforcement agencies in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and Martinsville was one of only eight that had been accredited by these standards. Members of the Executive Board of the VLEP S Commission then came forward to make the accreditation presentation, led by Chief Jack White of the City of Poquoson Police Department. Following receipt of the award Chief Edwards recognized members of his Department who were instrumental in the successful achievement of the accreditation process. Corporal Clarence Simington, who served internally as the Accreditation Manager, was singled out for special recognition for his diligence and hard work. In addition, the contributions of Major Charles Long, Lieutenant Butt Sharp, Lieutenant Mike Rogers, and Administrative Office Associate Janet Hiatt were noted. ChiefEdwards also recognized the contribution of former Chief of Police Terry Roop, who was responsible for the initiation of strong emphasis on training, education, and professional development. Mayor Adams stated that it was difficult to add to what had already been said, and characterized the accreditation as an impressive accomplishment. He also noted this award demonstrated the good management efforts that had resulted in replacing retired individuals of strong ability with new personnel equal to the task of continuing high quality achievement. Council next considered business from the floor. Mr. Derek Douglas, a resident of the City, came forward to offer his compliments to the City Police Department, and express his appreciation for their professionalism and their hard work in addressing the criminal activity in his neighborhood, which he characterized as a predominantly African-American area of the community. Mr. Douglas stated that his wife is a native of the Martinsville area, but that he was from a larger metropolitan area, and was especially pleased to see that the Martinsville Police were making a preemptive effort to prevent many of the kinds of criminal and undesirable activity that have become common in other urban areas. Mr. Douglas summarized by stating that Chief Edwards has done a fine job of instilling the right attitude in his officers, and that the litmus test for the quality of police services is whether or not all citizens enjoy the full right and full benefit of the law.