VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — The Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office (VBSO) held its 57th Basic Academy Class graduation Wednesday. This is the first year VBSO held the ceremony at the Oceanfront.
Mayor Bobby Dyer and other city officials joined family and friends of the 12 deputy recruits for the ceremony. Virginia Beach City Manager Patrick Duhaney delivered the keynote address.
“You help to keep our community safe and you also reinforce that bond between the community and law enforcement,” said Duhaney. “Today, when you take your oath to be a sheriff deputy, you are transitioning from a civilian to a law enforcement officer. You will be held to a higher standard, and you are expected to be a visible symbol of the city and all that it represents. You are now that hero that many of you idolized and who inspired you to pursue that gold star yourself. You are now looked upon and expected to be a leader in this great community.”
VBSO Basic Academy is 17-weeks long and includes training in Virginia law, arrest procedures, ethics, cultural diversity, firearms, defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, first aid and more.
Recruits must undergo rigorous physical fitness training and coursework related to the sheriff’s office’s core operations which includes: corrections, court transportation and security, and civil process.
Those interested in joining the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office should visit vbso.net/sworn-positions.
