The Piedmont Regional Criminal Justice Academy celebrated the graduation of 20 officers on November 27 as part of its 41st class. The ceremony, held at the New College Institute (NCI), marked the culmination of 11 weeks of rigorous training. Among the graduates, one officer will join the Martinsville City Sheriff’s Office, while 12 will bolster the ranks at the Henry County jail. Another group of officers is set to graduate on December 12.
Del. Eric Phillips, R-Martinsville, attended the ceremony to commend the graduates on their dedication to public safety. “It takes a special individual to serve in any law enforcement position,” Phillips said. “You’ve proven to your instructors that you’ve got the skills, courage, and judgment to graduate from this program.”
Phillips, who serves on the House Public Safety Committee, emphasized his commitment to supporting law enforcement officers through thoughtful legislation. He shared insights from his role, highlighting how the committee strives to address the challenges officers face daily.
“My goal is to make your jobs easier and safer to complete,” Phillips said, noting he had recently sought feedback from local sheriffs and police chiefs on potential legislation. One measure under consideration involves surveillance policies. “It could possibly make your jobs more difficult, and if it does, I’m not going to carry that kind of legislation because what you do is important.”
Phillips concluded his address by expressing gratitude for the graduates’ willingness to serve. “We need more men and women like you who are willing to stand up and do the brave, difficult work in our communities,” he said.
Sgt. Darrell Wilson also addressed the graduates, urging them to carry their determination and perseverance into their careers. “I encourage each and every one of you to take the same tenacity, palatability, and desire to go forward and achieve that you presented for the last 11 weeks,” Wilson said. “Be proud of this moment.”
Wilson praised the academy for its dedication to producing capable officers and noted its positive growth trajectory.
Class president Jason Berry echoed these sentiments, offering a message of empowerment to his peers. “Let today be a reminder that change is possible,” Berry said. “Each of you has the power to shape your own narrative. There will be challenges ahead, but remember that you are equipped to handle them.”
As the graduates embark on their careers, their training and commitment to public safety stand as a testament to their hard work and resilience. The Piedmont Regional Criminal Justice Academy continues to prepare new classes of officers, ensuring a strong future for law enforcement in the region.
The 41st class of graduates and their assignments include:
Patrick County Sheriff’s Office: Christopher Pilson
Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office: Ahyoncis Graves
Danville Sheriff’s Office: Grayson Cassell, Kavell Fitzgerald, Valerie Jennings, Lisa Richardson, Riley Via
Martinsville City Sheriff’s Office: DaiZhawn Giggetts
Henry County Sheriff’s Office: Curtiss Amos, Jason Berry, Samuel Edwards, Martin Falloon, James Foley II, Brian Grigg, Samuel Haskew, Scott Marlowe, Daniel Nagel, Michael Nowak, Kenneth Parcell III, and Saylor Pruitt.
