Norfolk Sheriff's Office Re-Certified
by Bonita Harris

The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office prevailed over budget cuts, overcrowding and a hiring freeze, to get 2010 off to a great start with re-certification by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. State accreditation is the best measure of an agency’s compliance with professional law enforcement standards. The Commission consists of Virginia sheriffs and police chiefs selected for their expertise and knowledge.

In 2004, the NSO became the first Southside Sheriff’s Office to become accredited, consistently earning re-certification ever since. Accreditation increases an agency’s ability to prevent and control crime through more effective and efficient delivery of law enforcement services to the community it serves, including crime prevention and other programs that directly benefit the public.

Sheriff Bob McCabe praised the entire staff for a job well done.

“I feel very fortunate to be the Sheriff of such a fine group of men and women who rise above challenges to excel in their profession,” said McCabe.  “There’s not a greater compliment you can receive than to be accredited by an organization made up of our peers, including Police Chiefs and Sheriffs from across Virginia and hear them say job well done.”

Sheriff McCabe thanked the entire NSO staff, with special recognition to the accreditation team, led by Lt. Colonel. Bob Wash and Major Greg Banks, with the cooperation of all of the departments and divisions.

Wii-hab!
By Bonita Harris

Residents at four of Norfolk’s senior and independent living centers have a new tool to help them make good on any New Year’s resolutions to get into shape and have fun at the same time! The Norfolk Sheriff Foundation purchased the Wii system for Tucker House, Franklin Arms, Sykes Mid Rise and Cromwell House.   Residents can dance, box or step into fitness.

Tucker House Manager Nancy Vick said the senior population goes ignored far too often and she appreciated Sheriff McCabe for looking out for them.  She thanked presenter Capt. Roger Stephenson for the gift saying,” it will provide fun, exercise and hopefully interaction among the residents.  It’s a great thing!”

Protecting our Seniors
by Bonita Harris

Every year, tens of thousands of America’s seniors become victims of elder abuse. As they become physically frail, they’re less able to stand up to bullying and protect themselves.  They may not see, hear or think as well as they used to, leaving them more vulnerable for people to take advantage of them.  Millions of cases go unreported, because the elderly may fear retaliation from the abuser, worry no one else will take care of them, be too embarrassed to admit it, or be reluctant to get their children or someone else they love in trouble with the law.

Capt. Steve Duke discussed the issue at a January presentation with the residents at the Suburban House.  “You probably know someone who is a victim of elder abuse,” warned Duke.

He encouraged them to contact local authorities if they suspect a case of elder abuse, or Virginia Adult Protective Services Hotline - 1-800-832-3858. (24  hours).