Category: Public Safety

Andrew F. Susalis, 36, was sentenced to more than 99 years in prison Tuesday in York-Poquoson Circuit Court. The sentence followed his Alford pleas to charges related to shooting at police officers on July 17 last summer. Susalis fired over 100 rounds from his York County home as officers investigated a road rage incident. One officer was slightly injured and a nearby house was hit by bullets during the shooting.

Williamsburg city officials recently launched RAVE Mobile Safety, a new mass notification system, to enhance communication with residents during emergencies. The system replaces Everbridge, integrates with the 911 center, and is projected to save the city $30,000 annually. Residents previously signed up for Everbridge have been automatically enrolled. Future phases will add features for city employees, with full implementation expected by the end of July. There is no cost for residents to join, though message rates may apply.

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORTS SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Local law enforcement agencies participated in the annual Special Olympics Torch Run.
The James City County Police Department and York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office were among those involved.
The “Flame of Hope” run raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics Virginia athletes.
Law enforcement agencies carry the torch throughout the commonwealth for this event.
The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office team ran three miles.
James City County Police ran 14 miles over three hours.
They handed off the torch at the New Kent County line.
The torch continues towards Richmond to officially open the Special Olympics competition.
Participating officers see the run as a symbol of unity, inclusion, and support for athletes.

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Photo Gallery: Local Law Enforcement Agencies Participate in Special Olympics Torch Run

SCAM PREVENTION TIPS FROM YORK-POQUOSON SHERIFF’S OFFICE

The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office warns residents about rising scams like the EZ-Pass toll scam.
Criminals are constantly creating new scam methods.
Deputy Taylor advises people to slow down and think before responding to suspicious messages.
Scammers often use urgency and emotions to pressure victims into quick decisions.
Common rising scams include EZ-Pass tolls, police warrants, and undeliverable packages.
Government agencies typically do not contact people via text for issues like unpaid tolls.
Tips include checking for misspellings and poor grammar in messages.
Do not click on links in suspicious messages as they may contain malware.
Stay updated on recent scam trends through reputable sources.
If you are a scam victim, contact local law enforcement immediately.
Report the scam to the Attorney General’s office and the Federal Trade Commission.
The Sheriff’s Office offers free classes on scams and identity theft.

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Don’t Get Duped: York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office Shares Top Scam Prevention Tips

VDEM RECOGNIZES EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS WEEK

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management is recognizing Emergency Management Professionals Week.
The week runs from June 2-6.
It celebrates dedicated professionals across Virginia.
These professionals plan for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies.
They ensure community safety and resilience.
They provide essential leadership and skills.
They develop plans, train staff, issue warnings, and secure resources.
VDEM State Coordinator John Scrivani highlighted their tireless work behind the scenes.
The week honors their commitment, expertise, and critical role in preparing for crises.
They coordinate efforts for natural disasters, cyber-attacks, and public health emergencies.
The recognition honors their contributions to the lives and safety of everyone in the commonwealth.

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VDEM Recognizes Emergency Management Professionals Week

VDEM HONORS EMERGENCY PROFESSIONALS

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management is recognizing Emergency Management Professionals Week.
The week is being observed from June 2-6.
It celebrates the dedicated professionals who plan for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies.
These professionals ensure the safety and resilience of Virginia’s communities.
They provide essential leadership and skills to prepare for and manage crises.
Their work includes developing plans, training personnel, issuing warnings, and acquiring resources.
VDEM State Coordinator John Scrivani highlighted their tireless efforts and critical role.
The week honors their service and contributions to safeguarding lives and property during various emergencies.

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VDEM Recognizes Emergency Management Professionals Week

YORK-POQUOSON SHERIFF HOSTS SAFE DRIVING EVENT

The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office is hosting a kickoff event on May 27th.
It launches the national “100 Safest Days of Summer” initiative.
The initiative aims to make the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day safe on roadways.
This time is historically known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers.
A legislative roundtable will discuss actions to reduce driving injuries and fatalities.
The event brings together lawmakers, law enforcement, and community groups.
Free online resources are available at 100safestdaysofsummer.org.
Community members are encouraged to attend to learn how to get involved.

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York-Poquson Sheriff’s Office to Hold Safe Driving Legislative Roundtable to Welcome ‘100 Safest Days of Summer’

A recent commentary supported by the library director argues the Williamsburg Regional Library building is outmoded and requires replacement. Issues cited include inadequate parking, failure to meet current accessibility standards, and an irregular layout causing navigation difficulties and security concerns. The building also lacks sufficient space for programs and books, has cramped staff offices, and its infrastructure, including HVAC, plumbing, and roof, is outdated and in disrepair. The commentary contends the library is too small to optimally serve the growing community.

POLICE UNITY TOUR HONORS FALLEN OFFICERS

Deputies from the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office participated in the 2025 Police Unity Tour.
The tour is a bicycle ride by law enforcement officers honoring those killed in the line of duty.
The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office is part of Chapter 8, which rode through their jurisdiction.
Participants ride to Washington D.C. for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial ceremony.
The purpose is to remember fallen officers, with riders often wearing bracelets bearing their names.
The tour supports the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

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York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office Participates in Police Unity Tour

PUBLIC MEETINGS FOR NEW WILLIAMSBURG LIBRARY

Public input meetings are scheduled for the proposed new Williamsburg Library.
The project team is seeking community feedback on the library’s vision and design.
Meetings will be held on May 15 and May 20 at the Williamsburg Fire Station.
The current library building is over 50 years old and needs replacement.
The proposed location is near the existing downtown library site.
Open-house sessions will feature design renderings and information.
Feedback can also be submitted via an online survey available May 15-30.
The goal is to create a new library that serves future generations.

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Project Team to Hold Public Input Meetings for Proposed Williamsburg Library