I saw the name of a Stafford County Sheriff’s Deputy, who was shot four times the line of duty earlier this week identified today in the media only through court records.
Thankfully, the deputy is on his way to recovery after a successful surgery.
We all respect those in law enforcement who protect and serve us. We, as a community join and rally around them to make a full recovery. We are saddened when they, god forbid, pay the ultimate price.
In this case, a reporter searching through court case records is the only reason we know the name of this brave deputy who is deserving our thanks, admiration, and goodwill.
“Initially, the deputy’s family requested that the injured deputy’s name be withheld. The Sheriff’s office complied with their wishes,” stated Stafford sheriff’s spokeswoman M.C. Moncure.
When three Prince William County police officers were shot in February, one of them fatally, we (the public at large and members of the media) knew the names of the officers within hours of the incident.
The Prince William County Police Department Public Information Office not only released the names to the media on the night of the shootings, but they also posted names and photos of the officers on the department’s social media accounts.
Officer Ashely Guindon paid the ultimate price on her first day on the job. Officers David McKeown and Jessie Hempen recovered, and were celebrated when they returned to the department for roll call — a triumphant moment that Prince William police shared on its social media pages.
In hours after Prince William police told us the names of the brave officers who were shot in the line of duty during a domestic situation, that information was used by citizens to create a rallying cry around fallen officers, and to show support for a police department that serves its citizens.
Within days, 1,000 people gathered at the county’s government center for a candlelight vigil to remember Officer Guindon, and pull together for the speedy recovery of the then hospitalized officers McKeown and Hempen. It was one of the biggest display’s of community support I had seen, and it made me proud to be from Prince William.
In regards to the Prince William department’s decision to tell us the names of its wounded officers, spokesman Jonathan Perok had this to say, “There isn’t a policy in that regard. It was a mutual decision that the department and families came to at the time. We saw a need in releasing the names and the families were consulted and agreed.”
Wouldn’t the Stafford Sheriff’s Office agree the actions of the Prince William County Police Department set a good precedent in this cases like these in the name of transparency, as well as a way to solicit support from its residents?
‘
In my nearly 20 years experience in local media, the Prince William County Police Department is not alone when it comes to providing its residents the names of its wounded police officers.
We are all grateful to the service given by the men and women of the Stafford Sheriff’s Office, and all law enforcement agencies that work to keep us safe. The ability to identify its members and support them in trying times like these should not be limited to those “in the know” or by those who are forced to search court case records.
Author
Recent Stories
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.Â
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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.
Featuring:
