Every day, when our deputies put on their uniforms and strap their duty belts around their waists, they do not know what the day will hold. Many days involve traffic stops, writing reports, and responding to a variety of calls—from larcenies to domestic situations and vehicle crashes. Some days, they face life-and-death situations.

And, on other days, they are called to perform small acts of kindness for residents in need—and sometimes it is these actions that make the biggest impact. On Sunday, the Sheriff’s Office received a call from a woman who accidentally locked her keys in her vehicle while she was shopping at the Giant on Celebrate Virginia Parkway. She became very flustered, especially after realizing her medication was still in the car and she was starting to feel ill. First Sergeant Collins quickly arrived on scene and helped her get into her vehicle.

On Wednesday, she called the Sheriff’s Office to commend First Sergeant Collins for quickly coming to her rescue. She also said the first sergeant was compassionate, caring, and offered many kind words while assisting her.

We are very grateful for the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, like First Sergeant Collins, who recognize that being a law enforcement officer means more than enforcing the law and fighting crime—it is about serving the community in any way we can.