Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office holds 49th Basic Academy graduation

The Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office today held its 49th Basic Academy graduation ceremony, recognizing 14 deputy recruits’ successful completion of training. The graduation was conducted virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and may be viewed on Facebook and YouTube.

This was one of the VBSO’s most diverse and educated academy classes ever – 50% are Black, 29% are white, 7% are Asian, 7% are Hispanic or Latino and 7% are two or more races; 57% have a college degree. Many are from Hampton Roads, others come from as far away as Yokosuka, Japan, and they have varied past careers that include working as court clerks, physical therapists, financial aid specialists and Marines. One-third have prior public safety experience, including working for the Virginia Beach Police Department, Virginia Department of Corrections and the regional jails.

The 16-week Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office Basic Academy includes training in Virginia law, ethics, cultural diversity, firearms, defensive tactics, crisis intervention, emergency vehicle operations, first aid and much more. The graduates also completed rigorous physical fitness training and courses pertaining to the Sheriff’s Office various functions: Corrections, Court Transportation and Security, and Civil Process. They each successfully met the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services requirements for graduation and have earned their Basic Jailer and Civil Process certifications.

The deputies will be assigned to the Virginia Beach Correctional Center and bring the number of active, sworn Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office deputies to 402. The VBSO is hiring and will conduct its next written and physical ability testing on April 17 and May 22. To apply, visit vbgovcareers.com.

“In my 40 years of public service, I have never seen a more challenging time to serve in law enforcement, and I commend the graduates for stepping up to protect and serve our community," said Sheriff Ken Stolle. "It takes a special person to put their life on the line for others, especially at a time when law enforcement is often a thankless job. To the graduates, I thank you and I am tremendously proud of you. Your training has prepared you to be successful in this career and uphold the trust that has been placed in you. You must earn that trust and do the right thing every day.”

Any questions or requests for additional information from the news media should be directed to Kathy Hieatt, Public Information Officer at 757.570.9123.