Norfolk Sheriff's Office

Congratulations to Undersheriff Colonel M. O'Toole who celebrates his 40-year Anniversary with the Norfolk Sheriff's Office today! This is such a wonderful achievement and we are so thankful for his leadership, his many years of service, and his dedication to our community.

Congratulations to Norfolk Sheriff's Office Chaplain Terry Haddock who was selected as Chaplain of the Year by the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA). Chaplain Haddock was presented her award during the 2026 Annual NSA Conference in Omaha, NE. Chaplain Haddock is a lifelong resident of Norfolk and has devoted nearly forty years to ministry and service to others. Her commitment to serving others is evident in her dual roles as Chaplain for both the Norfolk Sheriff's Office and the Norfolk Police Department. As a Chaplain for both agencies, she provides spiritual guidance, emotional support, and a compassionate presence to law enforcement officers, staff, and their families. Her ministry extends beyond the walls of public service into the heart of correctional facilities, where she has faithfully led weekly Bible studies and grief counseling classes for over twenty years. Her call to prison ministry reflects her deep compassion and unwavering belief in redemption and transformation. Through her steadfast presence, many incarcerated individuals have found renewed faith, hope, and purpose.

CAPTAIN G. GILL - FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY GRADUATE Please join us in congratulating Captain G. Gill who successfully completed the FBI National Academy and graduated yesterday from the 297th Session. Throughout the 10-week program, which began on January 9, 2026, Captain Gill and members of Session 297 received training in various areas of law enforcement including terrorism, forensic science, and communication and completed weekly fitness challenges along with a variety of enrichment and networking events. Captain Gill joined the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office in July 2011 and serves as the OIC of Jail Operations. Throughout his career he has been awarded Leader of the Year and has received numerous certifications and promotions. Captain Gill brings a positive energy to every room he enters and was described by another Session 297 graduate as "one in a million" and "the happiest person I know." We couldn't agree more! Everyone at the Norfolk Sheriff's Office is so proud of Captain Gill on this amazing accomplishment and all of his success in Quantico. We are looking forward to having him back.

During Black History Month and every day, we proudly recognize the diverse men and women within our ranks-both sworn and civilian. From professional excellence to volunteerism, mentorship, and community outreach we are grateful for their service and integrity which strengthens our organization and the community we serve.

Over the weekend, members of Team NSO participated in the 2026 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Virginia. Captain Pestik and Master Deputy Parker participated in the 5K Run/Waddle along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk on Friday night (while it was snowing). And on Saturday, Captain Pestik, Lieutenant LaPorte, and Master Deputy Parker participated in the Polar Plunge. Our Polar Plunge team may have been small, but they were mighty - raising over $1600 as part of Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Virginia. We love supporting Special Olympics and the athletes each year. Thank you to everyone who donated and supported our team!

Congratulations to Master Deputy Dempich and Sergeant Thomas who were recognized as Deputies of the Year by American Legion Tidewater Post 327 last week. Sgt. Thomas and Master Deputy Dempich were recognized for their efforts during a shooting that took place on Waterside Drive in November 2025. After hearing gunshots, they located a gunshot victim in need of medical attention. They worked together to perform lifesaving measures and thanks to their quick thinking and knowledge, the shooting victim survived.

Last week the Norfolk Sheriff's Office Training Division kicked off the 77th Session Academy with a full week of learning objectives and a visit from Sheriff Joe Baron. Sheriff Baron stopped by the Academy to speak with the recruits about his expectations, the values of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office, and wishing them much success during their time in the Academy. The NSO Family welcomes to the recruits of the 77th Session and can't wait to celebrate them at their graduation in May!

NSO Deputies Awarded Meritorious Performance Award During a recent graduation ceremony, two Norfolk Sheriff’s Office deputies were presented with the Meritorious Performance Award for saving the life of a gunshot victim. In the early morning hours of Sunday, November 23, while working part-time security at an entertainment venue, Master Deputy Dempich, Master Deputy Bice, and Senior Deputy Wilson heard gun shots and observed shattered car windows. When they realized which direction the gun shots were coming from, Deputies Bice, Dempich and Wilson saw the suspect and began pursuing him on foot. The suspect ran to a nearby parking garage where he fled in a vehicle. The deputies then located a male victim who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Master Deputy Dempich, who is a paramedic for the City of Virginia Beach, immediately began to render aid to the victim utilizing a trauma bag. After removing the victim’s clothing, Master Deputy Dempich exposed the entry wound. Around this time, Sgt. Thomas (who was working close by) arrived on scene and immediately jumped in to assist Master Deputy Dempich by applying a chest seal to the victim. Once medics arrived on scene the victim was quickly rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Due to the quick thinking of Master Deputy Dempich with assistance from Sgt. Thomas, the victim in this incident survived. The suspect was later arrested by Norfolk Police Department and is currently being held without bond. In addition to receiving the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office Meritorious Performance Award, Master Deputy Dempich and Sergeant Thomas will also be recognized at an American Legion awards ceremony later this month. 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded us that "the time is always right to do what is right." That message aligns with the values of the Norfolk Sheriff's Office where integrity, respect, and the courage to do the right thing guide our actions everyday. Inspired by Dr. King's legacy we remain committed to public safety, public service, public trust, and having the courage to do the right thing, always.

Wishing you a wonderful and safe year ahead!