Fairfax County, Va. –– Several Fairfax County Police officers were honored last week, including two who helped recover thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise, police said.
Officers Christopher Burbrink and Ryan Lazisky won Officer of the Year awards on Oct. 1, after they investigated a string of crimes that occurred around the Springfield Mall, at an Ulta cosmetics store – where $7,000 worth of merchandise was stolen – as well as a Home Depot store on Franconia Road, said Fairfax County police spokesman Richard Henry.
After collecting evidence and pulling a few stake outs in the areas, Burbrink and Lazisky would arrest two suspects in June.
An investigation revealed the suspects would steal merchandise and then return the items for gift cards. What they couldn’t return they would pawn for half the items’ value at pawn stores, said Henry.
Both officers have also worked to solve other cases, including credit card thefts and fraud.
All the officers were nominated by their superiors and honored by the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce.
Another officer honored, Master Police Officer Brian Murcek, was the recipient of a Continuous Service Award from the chamber of commerce.
A Fairfax County Police officer since 1986, Murcek has trained six recruits, patrolled the Lorton area and helped to open a satellite office near Hagel Circle, said Henry.
Murcek also worked for seven years as a dispatcher, and worked to install a new computer system and software now used in police cruisers.
Detective Brook Ware was also honored as Detective of the Year because of her “superior investigative skills and ability to successfully solve cases.”
Ware developed evidence that led to the arrest of three high school students who were eventually charged in a series of crimes that included a robbery of another juvenile, said Henry.
And Auxiliary Police Officer Curt Velasquez was the recipient of the Auxiliary Officer of the Year award from the Mount Vernon-Lee Chamber.
Since becoming an APO in 2008, he has volunteered more than 1,500 hours to the Fairfax County Police Department.
During that time he has worked to enforce sobriety checkpoints, and volunteered during the presidential inauguration in 2009, said Henry.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
