Norfolk Sheriff's Office

12/26/2022

Happy Kwanzaa to all who celebrate. Wishing you a week filled with unity, prosperity, and faith.

12/25/2022

On behalf of Sheriff Joe Baron and the entire Norfolk Sheriff's Office, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. We hope your day is filled with joy, love, and laughter.

12/24/2022

Merry Christmas Eve!

Santa has started his journey around the world and thanks to NORAD Tracks Santa you can track him and find out when he may be making his way to the United States. If you have young kids at home they will be sure to get a kick out of this!

Find out where he is at this link: https://www.noradsanta.org/en/map

Happy Holidays!

12/23/2022

SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER!

Norfolk Sheriff's Office Court personnel recently adopted two families and bought gifts for them for the holidays. A representative from the Norfolk Community Services Board stopped by Wednesday to pick up the gifts and shared the following remarks with Sheriff Baron, "The Child and Adolescent program at the Norfolk Community Services Board are sending a heartfelt thank you for the wonderful holiday gifts given to our families which put a priceless smile on their faces. We are truly grateful and appreciate your generosity and commitment in servicing the citizens of Norfolk."

Making a positive difference in the lives of others is at the heart of what we do here at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office and we hope we were able to make Christmas a little brighter for these families.

12/22/2022

PLEASE NOTE: The Norfolk Sheriff's Office Administration Building will have adjusted hours for the upcoming holidays.

12/20/2022

OUR HEARTS ARE FULL!

On Saturday, in partnership with Garden of Hope and Gethsemane Community Fellowship, we hosted our December Second Chances/Fatherhood event. Two inmates who participate in the Fatherhood program met the requirements needed and had the opportunity to spend time with their families before Christmas.

Garden of Hope organized the event and from the Christmas themed decorations to the photo props, arts and crafts, games for the families to play, and gifts for the family members, everything was well thought out and beautiful. The smiles on the faces of the everyone in attendance was something very special. We appreciate everyone who had a hand in putting this event together.

The Virginian-Pilot was also in attendance at the event. Look for their story this weekend!

Virginia Sheriffs' Association (VSA)
Virginia Sheriffs' Institute (VSI)
City of Norfolk Government

12/19/2022

We love making a positive difference in our community and on Friday we did just that!

Each year during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays we deliver turkeys to a pre-determined group of people who can use a helping hand during the holiday season. On Friday we delivered over 150 turkeys, sides, and candy canes to citizens, churches, and non-profit organizations.

Thanks to 13News Now - WVEC for tagging along with us! Here's the link to the story: https://www.13newsnow.com/video/life/holidays/norfolk-sheriffs-office-gives-out-turkeys-ahead-of-christmas/291-aa0524c6-9c0d-44d0-8f43-f8cba343603d

Virginia Sheriffs' Association (VSA)
City of Norfolk Government
Virginia Sheriffs' Institute (VSI)

12/19/2022

Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate. Wishing you a season full of light and love!

12/18/2022

Several months ago you helped us name our newest K-9 and we thought it was time to check in and find out how he's doing. Enzo and his handler, Senior Deputy Klutts, have been training in Chesapeake and things are going well for the team. Here are a few updated pictures.

12/13/2022

On Sunday evening, Master Deputy R. Parker and her partner, Special Olympics Virginia athlete Robert Waller, participated in the 7th Annual Dancing with the Athletes event at the Chesapeake Conference Center. After months of practice, they took the stage with other public safety officers (sheriff deputies, firefighters, and police officers from surrounding jurisdictions) and Special Olympians as they competed for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

While Master Deputy Parker and Robert may not have won the Mirrorball Trophy they did walk away with the award for being the highest fundraisers, having raised more than $5,200 for Special Olympics Virginia. Sheriff Joe Baron and all of us at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office could not be more proud of Master Deputy Parker and Robert for representing the Norfolk Sheriff's Office with such enthusiasm and pride.

Thank you to the Chesapeake Sheriff's Office for hosting the event and for inviting other jurisdictions to participate and get involved!

12/12/2022

Just before the holidays, the Norfolk Sheriff's Office celebrated the recruits of the 70th Session and their successful completion of the NSO Training Academy at their graduation ceremony. On November 17th, eighteen individuals graduated in a ceremony at Norfolk Collegiate in front of their family and friends. These recruits began the Academy in July and over the course of four months completed rigorous training, practical scenarios, and classroom assignments to become sworn law enforcement officers. Thank you to Norfolk Collegiate for hosting the event and to Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander who served as the guest speaker for the event.

In addition to the graduation ceremony, we also celebrated the retirement of three employees, the promotions of three employees, and for the first time in the history of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office, two deputies received the Purple Heart.

Congratulations to all of the graduates, retirees, promotees, and award recipients!

12/09/2022

Recognizing the importance of employees keeping up with their training and staying active and healthy, Sheriff Joe Baron encourages Norfolk Sheriff's Office personnel to participate in health and wellness programs that will keep their bodies healthy and their minds sharp.

Recently, Deputy Bateman and Lt. LaPorte launched a program offering sworn and civilian NSO employees an opportunity to train with local Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academies. Through this training, employees are able to work on their defensive tactics, enhance their skills, and learn new techniques in the safety of our Training Academy. Thank you to all of the BJJ academies who have participated. We look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership!

Virginia Sheriffs' Association (VSA)
Virginia Sheriffs' Institute (VSI)
City of Norfolk Government
LINXX Academy of Martial Arts
Diego Bispo Academy
100 Kilos Combat Sports Academy

12/08/2022

This afternoon the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Civil Process Division stopped by Walmart on Military Highway to see Shaggy and donate toys to Z104’s Stuff the Bus Campaign! All of the toys donated through the Stuff the Bus campaign are given to children right here in Hampton Roads thanks to the U.S Marine Corps Reserves, Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army, and Z104.

12/07/2022

The theme of this year’s Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony is Everlasting Legacy. As we think back on all that happened on this day in 1941, we reflect on the acts of courage and heroism displayed by the men and women who were present and we honor their commitment and sacrifice to our country. Their legacy is certainly everlasting.

12/06/2022

It's the most wonderful time of the year and one of the best ways to spread holiday cheer is through the Cops and Kids program!

On Saturday, Lt. Tincler joined Norfolk FOP 3 and other law enforcement officers from Norfolk Police Department and Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel Police for the FOP's annual Cops and Kids shopping event. The event is a great reminder of the meaning of the season and the smile on their faces shows their excitement for having the opportunity to participate in this amazing event. Thanks to everyone who made the event possible.

PHOTO CREDIT: Norfolk Police Department

12/06/2022

Thank you to everyone who participated in last week's NSO American Red Cross Blood Drive. Thanks to our donors, the Red Cross was able to collect enough units to potentially save 33 lives!

12/01/2022

Now that all of our bumps and bruises have healed from the number of times we fell on the rink, we wanted to share some pictures from our most recent Camp Hope event. For our November field trip, we planned a day at the skating rink for Camp Hope participants and their families. We had a ton of fun and won't disclose how many times we fell. (Let's just say there's a reason deputies aren't issued skates with their uniforms!😄) For our December event, we're looking forward to a low-key movie night.

11/29/2022

It's !

As the State Chairman of Special Olympics Virginia, Sheriff Joe Baron is committed to bringing attention to and fundraising for the Special Olympics. Sheriff Baron and Norfolk Sheriff's Office personnel participate in a number of Special Olympics events and fundraisers throughout the year and we are already gearing up for the 2023 Polar Plunge at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The event will be held on February 4, 2023, with a number of events planned throughout the weekend. Fundraising for the Polar Plunge has already begun and if you are looking for a worthy cause to support on this Giving Tuesday please consider donating to the Special Olympics. 100% of the proceeds will benefit Special Olympics athletes. Check out our Polar Plunge team page at this link: https://impact.specialolympicsva.org/team/461237

11/24/2022

Sheriff Joe Baron and all of us at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving.

We want to express our gratitude and appreciation for our city leadership, community partners, volunteers, employees, and supporters. We wish you all a wonderful holiday season.

11/24/2022

11/23/2022

The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office sends our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, co-workers, first responders, and the entire Chesapeake community following the tragedy that occurred last night.

Sheriff Joe Baron shared the following remarks "It is heartbreaking to wake up to yet another shooting, this time affecting our neighboring city of Chesapeake. So many friends in Chesapeake! Sending prayers to the families, victims, law enforcement who responded, and Fire and Rescue."

To everyone affected by this tragedy, we pray for peace in the difficult days ahead.

11/22/2022

This morning, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, Sheriff Joe Baron and Norfolk Sheriff’s Office personnel delivered 100 turkeys, 35 turkey breasts, and sides to citizens, churches, and non-profit agencies throughout the City of Norfolk.

It is the mission of the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office to make a positive difference in the lives of others as far as we can reach and one of the ways we can do that is through service to our community. For more than 10 years, the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office has been donating and delivering turkeys during the holiday season.

“Each year during the holiday season we look forward to delivering turkeys to citizens throughout Norfolk. This is one small way the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office can make a difference in the lives of others and bless members of our community who may need a helping hand. I am grateful for the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office personnel and our community partners who made this possible,” stated Sheriff Joe Baron.

Sponsors for this year’s turkey and food donations include the Sheriff Joe Baron Foundation, Summit Foods, Keefe, Wegman’s, Thomas Mayhew, and Little Lily Ministries.

11/21/2022

Congratulations to Taylor Heinicke for being named starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders. Taylor was a huge part of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Sports Camp for many years and was always a huge hit with the attendees. Sheriff Joe Baron and all of us at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office are excited for him to have this opportunity and will be cheering him on from afar.

Pictured: Former ODU Football Coach Bobby Wilder, NSO Undersheriff Colonel Mike O'Toole, and Taylor Heinicke

11/20/2022

This evening Sheriff Joe Baron, the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs Division, and NSO personnel enjoyed participating in the Downtown Norfolk Grand Illumination Parade. What a fun way to kick off the holiday season!

We hope everyone enjoyed the parade and the holiday festivities in Downtown Norfolk.

(Check out the comments for fun videos from this evening!)

11/18/2022

After learning of the passing of former Norfolk Police Department Chief and Prince George's County, Office Of The Sheriff Sheriff Melvin High, Sheriff Joe Baron shared the following remarks:

"I was truly saddened to learn of the passing of Prince George’s County Sheriff Melvin High. I will always remember and respect him as Chief High for his service as Norfolk’s Chief of Police.

I was a young detective on the Norfolk Police Department when Chief High took over, and I remember no one knew what to expect, as he came from an outside agency. What I soon learned is he was a man of great integrity who cared about community policing and taking care of his officers. In fact, he gave me my first promotion.

Sheriff High dedicated his life to public service, and it was a true honor to know him. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and the Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Office as they mourn the sudden loss of this exceptional man." ~Joe Baron, Norfolk Sheriff

"53 years, a lifetime of service."

The Norfolk Police Department is saddened to hear about the death of former Chief Melvin C. High, 78.

Chief Melvin High first began his career in law enforcement with the Washington Metropolitan Police Dept. in 1969. After rising to the rank of Assistant Chief of Police, he retired and became the City of Norfolk Government Chief of Police in 1993.

During his ten years of service with , Chief High was instrumental in developing Police Assisted Community Enforcement (PACE), one of 's first community policing programs. Chief High also made diversity a priority by updating and improving 's recruitment and retention strategies during his time of leadership.

In 2003, Chief High retired and moved on to become the Chief of Police at Prince George County Police Department until 2008. Two years later, in 2010, Melvin High became the Sheriff at Prince George's County, Office Of The Sheriff and proudly served as the Sheriff there until his death on November 17, 2022.

Melvin High is survived by his wife Brenda and daughter Tracy.

Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation

11/18/2022

Last night we hosted our 70th Session Academy Graduation and we were honored to have Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander serve as our guest speaker. Thank you to everyone who joined us to help us celebrate the success of these 18 individuals.

More pictures to come!

11/14/2022

NSO's Health and Wellness Coordinator, K. Bean, along with several NSO personnel, recently organized and participated in two memorial bike rides for NSO employees who are no longer with us.

On August 18, NSO personnel participated in a Memorial Bike Ride for Cpl. Gibran Barclift who passed away from a medical emergency while working inside of the Norfolk City Jail in August 2017. Cpl. Barclift worked for the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office for 15 years and was promoted to Corporal shortly before his death.

On November 1, NSO personnel held a Memorial Bike Ride for Lt. Jason "Gio" Gionvenco-Montano who passed away after a battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. "Gio" joined the Norfolk Sheriff's Office in 2008 after graduating with honors from the 41st Session Recruit Academy and served as a Lieutenant in the Training Division prior to his passing in October 2020.

While both of these men are no longer with us physically we always keep them close at heart. Through events such as these Memorial Bike Rides we can ensure they will never be forgotten.

11/13/2022

WE ARE HIRING!

The Norfolk Sheriff's Office is hiring a full-time Inmate Classification Specialist. The Inmate Classification Specialist prepares and performs risk assessments, housing assignments, access to mandated services, and develops and implements programs to meet social service needs.

For a complete list of duties, requirements, and salary information, visit https://norfolk-sheriff.com/jobs/index.php/openings/inmate-classification-specialist

11/12/2022

The Norfolk Sheriff's Office Consumer Protection Unit has issued a scam warning after receiving notification of a recent attempt to scam a Norfolk resident.

The resident reportedly received a call from a person claiming to be from Dominion Energy. The caller demanded payment for an account they said was past due. They said if payment wasn't received they would cut off their service. As a reminder, Dominion Energy will never demand immediate payment to avoid service disruption.

To read more about this scam and how you can protect yourself, visit https://norfolk-sheriff.com/fraudwatch/fraud-watch-news/as-cold-weather-approaches-be-alert-and-prepared-for-energy-related-scams

11/11/2022

In honor of Veterans Day, the Norfolk Sheriff's Office wants to say THANK YOU to all our veterans who have served our nation and continue to serve our community!

11/10/2022

Happy 247th Birthday, U.S. Marine Corps. Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve.

11/07/2022

The Norfolk Sheriff's Office Administrative Offices will be closed on November 8 for Election Day.

11/07/2022

Over the weekend several NSO employees volunteered at the Special Olympics Virginia Fall Championships and several others participated in the Opening Ceremony on Saturday evening. Throughout the weekend several hundred athletes competed in games such as bowling, bocce ball, golf, volleyball, soccer, and more while competing for medals in each event. We hope all of the athletes had a great time.

11/07/2022

Over the weekend several NSO employees volunteered at the Special Olympics Virginia Fall Championships and several others participated in the Opening Ceremony on Saturday evening. Throughout the weekend several hundred athletes competed in games such as bowling, bocce ball, golf, volleyball, soccer, and more while competing for medals in each event. We hope all of the athletes had a great time.

11/05/2022

Don't forget to set your clocks back before going to bed tonight.

11/04/2022

LOOKING TO SUPPORT A WORTHY CAUSE?

Master Deputy R. Parker and her partner, Robert, will be participating in the upcoming "Dancing with the Athletes" event on December 11, 2022. The event is a spin on the popular show Dancing with the Stars and a fundraiser for Special Olympics Virginia. For the event, a law enforcement officer is teamed up with a Special Olympics athlete for two dances, a group dance and a freestyle dance, and will compete against other teams in an effort to win the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Master Deputy Parker and Robert have been practicing weekly and are very excited about the upcoming event.

For this fundraiser they have a goal of raising $2,000 and would LOVE (and greatly appreciate) your support. 100% of the proceeds will go to the Special Olympics! To make a donation visit https://impact.specialolympicsva.org/team/452620

11/02/2022

Reminiscing on a fun-filled month of October with so many wonderful events.

From employee appreciation events, to the NAACP Banquet, our monthly Camp Hope event, our first Active Shooter Response Training, the Community Connect Trunk or Treat event, and more it was a busy month. Here's a look at some of the fun we had.

10/31/2022

Wishing you a safe and happy Halloween from all of us at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office.

10/29/2022

We love attending Career Day events and having the opportunity to speak to students about what we do here at the Sheriff's Office. On Thursday, the NSO Community Affairs Division stopped by St. Pius X School Norfolk VA and really enjoyed their visit! Thank you for having us!