Gary Williams Named Farmville Officer of the Year

FARMVILLE, VA – Officer Gary Williams has been named the 2015 Farmville Police Officer of the Year. Gary became a Farmville Police Officer in 2012 after retiring from the Virginia State Police where he had a successful 27 year career. However, Gary obviously does not consider the Farmville Police Department as a retirement job. During his time here Gary has received high praise for his professionalism and work ethic. He is always willing to work assignments and take on the difficult tasks that often are required of the job such as tracking down wanted persons and serving outstanding warrants. What makes Gary worthy of this award is not just the professional performance of his duty, but the many tasks he undertakes to foster community policing.

In 2015 Gary participated in various child safety seat installations, spent time reading to children at daycare centers, attended multiple community events and worked on many problem solving initiatives for the betterment of the community. Gary assisted Officer Christy Booth to help establish a Farmville Chapter of “Help Save the Next Girl” which brings awareness to the threat and prevention of abductions. The officers partnered with a local sorority to host a large campus event at Longwood University that was well attended.

Gary was also instrumental in the reestablishment of the Police Explorers Program. The explorer program requires a significant dedication of time to meet program guidelines. This program plays a vital role in helping to introduce students to a possible career in the law enforcement profession. Mentors in this program have a great opportunity to help shape the future of law enforcement in our nation. In a few short months, the program has expanded from five members to fifteen active members.

While many of the Farmville Police Officers work diligently with community service projects and they each deserve recognition, we can only select one to be officer of the year. Gary’s commitment to the department and the Farmville Community is an example of the goals of the agency. He is a full service officer to the community who does not focus simply on the enforcement of laws, but also the improvement of the quality of life for all citizens and the future of our profession. In addition to the many accomplishments that Gary has achieved over his esteemed career, nothing can compare to his friendly demeanor, compassion, and the genuine respect he shows to everyone he meets. He represents the things that make a true public servant. We are very proud to name him our 2015 Officer of the Year.