Sheriff Sean Casey and the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office celebrated staff accomplishments with an employee awards and promotional recognition ceremony on March 28. The program honored employees who received awards, as selected by their colleagues, and those who earned promotions last year.

The ceremony began with the Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard presenting the colors and Deputy Jacquelyn Olson singing the national anthem, followed by Master Deputy Todd Stubblefield providing the invocation. Acting Captain LaJuenne Harding served as emcee and welcomed guests, and then Jessica Aber, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, delivered the keynote speech.

In a special presentation, representatives of American Legion Alexandria Post 24 announced Deputy Nicholas Montgomery as their 2023 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in recognition of his work in training, recruitment, and community outreach in addition to his regular duties. Post Commander Mike Mixon and Vice Commander Donna Reuss presented Deputy Montgomery, who also serves in the Honor Guard, with a plaque and congratulated him on his award.

Then members of the Sheriff’s Office Employee Awards committee announced the winners as Sheriff Casey presented the following awards:

Esprit de Corps – Lieutenant Robert Gilmore
Unit Spirit – Judicial Services Section
Outstanding Performance
    Sworn line staff – Deputy Josue Reyes
    Professional line staff – Michelle Frier
    Sworn supervisor – Sergeant Deon Eaddy
    Professional staff supervisor – LaTanya Ervin
Outstanding Contributions by an Employee of a City Agency, Organization or Contractor – Roderick Valerio, R.N., Wellpath
Best New Employee
    Sworn – Deputy Juan Reyes
    Professional – Gayle Reuter
Master Deputy of the Year – Master Deputy Toyia Brown
Life Saving – Deputy Joseph Walker
Shining Star – Sergeant Victor Ignacio
Best Idea – Master Deputy Wakeatin Carter

After the awards, deputies who received career elevations were announced and the following five employees who earned promotions were recognized:

Human Resources Director Latoscha Hart
Sergeant Cassandra Branch
Lieutenant LaJuenne Harding
Captain Larry Richardson
Chief Deputy Dan Gordon

As the highest ranking promotee, Chief Gordon addressed the audience. He thanked family members for their support and congratulated others who had been promoted. He reflected on the true meaning of leadership and the importance of creating an environment where all employees can flourish.

In his closing remarks, Sheriff Casey congratulated the award winners and promotees, and thanked all Sheriff’s Office staff for their contributions. He also noted the teamwork that went into three successful accreditation audits over the past year.

Following the program, guests enjoyed cake and light refreshments.

_______________

Individual Award Winners
Top: Master Deputy Toyia Brown, Master Deputy Wakeatin Carter, Sergeant Deon Eaddy and Director LaTanya Ervin
Middle: Senior Records Clerk Michelle Frier, Lieutenant Robert Gilmore, Sergeant Victor Ignacio and Deputy Nicholas Montgomery
Bottom: Accreditation Manager Gayle Reuter, Deputy Josue Reyes, Deputy Juan Reyes and Deputy Joseph Walker