NNSO, deputies honored by American Legion Post 25

The Newport News Sheriff’s Office was recognized by American Legion Post 25, which held its Law and Order recognition dinner on Saturday, April 1. 

Since the event hadn’t been held since 2019 due to COVID-19, the Post commander gave three awards. The first went to the staff of the NNSO for its community work and dedication to the mission during the first year of the COVID pandemic in 2020. Chief Deputy Col. S. Whitfield accepted the award on behalf of Sheriff Gabe Morgan.

2021 Deputy of the Year

The Post recognized the 2021 Deputy of the Year, Cpl. D. Hopkins. He’s been serving the people of Newport News as a valued member of the Sheriff’s Office for more than 25 years.   

Serving in Courts, Hopkins’ knowledge, professionalism, compassion, and positive attitude are recognized by those who have business in court.  Judges rely on his expertise to keep order in the courtroom.

He sets a standard of excellence outside the courtroom as well.  The sheriff calls us “Team NNSO” and Hopkins is truly a team player.  He happily helps others, takes on additional duties, and works extra hours when needed.  He is a mentor to younger deputies and is quick to make new deputies feel welcome.  

2022 Deputy of the Year

The 2022 Deputy of the Year, Deputy T, Raynor, joined the NNSO in December 2020.   As he readied for graduation from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy, Deputy Raynor was chosen by his classmates to speak at the ceremony.  He related stories about the demands of the studies and the excitement he and his fellow students felt as they prepared to return to their agencies.

Deputy Raynor says he chose the NNSO because it gave him the opportunity to begin his law enforcement career in an environment that would challenge him and help him build his character.

He says he chose the NNSO because it gave him the opportunity to begin his law enforcement career in an environment that would challenge him and help him build his character.    

As a deputy sheriff working in the jail, he takes seriously his duty to maintain a safe environment for the inmates and his co-workers and keep the facility secure.  He believes it’s important to work as a team and to support each other throughout each shift.

Deputy Raynor is in his third year at the Newport News Sheriff’s Office and has a vision for his career – and that is to use all the knowledge and experience he gains to help lead the future of law enforcement. 

The American Legion Post also honored the Newport News Fire Department and its EMTs and firefighters of the year and the Newport News Police Department and its officers of the year for the same time period.

Law and Order Night festivities included a social, a delicious homemade roast beef dinner, and, of course, good fellowship.