Amherst County Sheriff's Office

06/03/2026

Due to the overwhelming response for the First Responder Camp, any applications that have been received from this time forward will be added to a wait list.

You will be contacted if there are changes within the schedule or if slots are opened up.

We are extremely thankful for the response and humbled by a problem we didn't think we would have.

05/30/2026

UPDATE: Michael Puckett has been captured in Surry County!

Last night, two Carroll County Sheriff's Office deputies were conducting a welfare check when the male subject reportedly opened fire on the responding deputies. Tragically, one deputy lost his life in the line of duty, while the second deputy was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

Sheriff Ayers and the Amherst County Sheriff's Office extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen deputy. We also pray for the wounded deputy and wish him a full and speedy recovery.

Please join us in keeping the fallen deputy, the injured deputy, their families, the Carroll County Sheriff's Office, and all law enforcement personnel involved in your thoughts and prayers.

Puckett fled the scene and an active search is underway. He should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. Anyone who sees him or has information regarding his whereabouts are urged to immediately call 911.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1MxGjQfTgm/

05/29/2026

05/28/2026

***ATTEMPT TO IDENTIFY*** DO YOU KNOW THIS PERSON?
The Amherst County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a larceny that occurred this month (May) from the Madison Heights Lowe’s involving the individual pictured below.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Dep. R. Mayhew at the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office at 434-946-9300 or report by calling Central Virginia Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. An anonymous tip can also be made online using http://p3tips.com, by downloading the P3 app on any mobile device or by texting; Text CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to an anonymous tip form. Message frequency varies, and Message & data rates may apply. Text HELP for help and STOP to cancel, read P3 Terms and Privacy Policy. A cash reward of up to $1,000 may be available for tips that lead to an arrest in this crime.

05/26/2026

05/22/2026

On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, selective enforcement patrols were conducted on the south end of the county due to recent speeding complaints and concerns in residential neighborhoods throughout Madison Heights.

These enforcement efforts are being conducted because we have received numerous complaints regarding speeding. Residents in these neighborhoods deserve to feel safe while walking along the streets without fear of being struck by a vehicle, and children should be able to safely play in their yards.

As we continue to receive speeding complaints throughout Amherst County, we remain committed to enforcing traffic laws in these areas, maintaining a visible presence in your neighborhoods, and helping keep our communities safe.

Sheriff Ayers and the agency remain committed to the safety of all citizens and respectfully ask motorists to slow down and obey posted speed limits in residential areas to help prevent a tragedy.

These are the areas that were patrolled on 05/20/2026.
• Main St.
• Hill Top Dr.
• Greenwood Dr.
• Dixie Airport Rd.
• Amelon Rd.
• Woodland Dr.
• Todd Ln.
• Izaak Walton Rd.
• S.Coolwell Rd.
• Woodys Lake Rd.
• Winesap Rd.
• Partridge Creek Rd.

During these Traffic enforcement efforts,
12 summonses for speeding
1 Reckless driving by speed
4 summonses for failure to wear a seatbelt
3 summonses for expired inspections

05/18/2026

The Sheriff’s Office would like to inform the community that Declan Thurman stopped by our office to advise that he will be conducting door-to-door sales in the area as part of an educational book sales internship program through Texas A&M.

He will be going door-to-door throughout Amherst County from May 18, 2026, through August 15, 2026. Residents may see him traveling throughout neighborhoods during this time period driving a grey Ford with Texas license plates.

As always, citizens are encouraged to use their own discretion when making purchases or inviting individuals onto their property. If you have any concerns or suspicious activity to report, please contact the Sheriff’s Office.