The ongoing discussions by the Purcellville Town Council regarding the defunding of the police department highlight the importance of having a fully functioning police station and the dedicated officers who serve our community every day. The exemplary service of the Purcellville Police Department stands as a vital reminder of the positive impact our officers make in keeping our town safe and supportive.
The dedicated officers of the Purcellville Police Department stand as a testament to exemplary service and unwavering commitment to the community. In support of the department, former Chief Cindy McAllister compiled several noteworthy stories, stating, “Here are some cases I remember…. I know there are many more, and as the officers often say, ‘I’m just doing my job.’”
Swift and Decisive Action in Critical Situations
In a harrowing incident, Officers Wagner and Kakol responded to a domestic violence call where a family member had stabbed his father and attempted to set him on fire. Acting swiftly, Officer Kakol provided critical first aid, ensuring the victim received immediate care. The quick action of Officer Wagner, who issued a detailed lookout for the suspect, led to the apprehension of the subject later that day. This incident highlights the officers’ ability to remain composed and effective under pressure, making a life-saving difference.
Officer Kakol also displayed exemplary first aid skills during a shooting incident, where he managed to apply a tourniquet and pack a gunshot wound—actions that later received commendation from medical professionals for potentially saving the victim’s life.
Heroism in the Face of Danger
Officer Camp exhibited extraordinary bravery during a domestic complaint involving a subject armed with knives. Upon detecting a gas smell and hearing an explosion, he promptly evacuated the family and worked alongside an off-duty firefighter to extinguish the flames engulfing the armed man. Thanks to their rapid response, the man survived a serious situation that could have ended in tragedy.
In another instance, Officers Burkett and Starkey tackled an intense fire engulfing a vehicle, risking their own safety to rescue an occupant in distress. Their quick actions ensured that multiple families were kept safe during a chaotic situation.
Community Care Beyond Duty
What sets the Purcellville Police Department apart is their dedication not just to enforcing the law but to serving the community in meaningful ways. Officer Camp and Officer Burkett made a profound impact when they responded to a welfare check that revealed an elderly man in dire need of assistance following the loss of his wife. Their compassion extended to personal involvement, as they provided food and ensured that the man received necessary services and companionship during his difficult time.
The selflessness continued with Officer Wagner’s initiatives, whether it was providing a homeless man with food and shelter or decorating a lonely elderly woman’s Christmas tree, ensuring that the holiday spirit shone brightly in her home.
The community’s gratitude is reflected in numerous positive interactions with officers. For instance, a local business owner shared how an officer came to their shop after hours, noticing a light left on in a rear alley. The officer’s concern ensured everything was secure. Similarly, another resident praised the prompt police response during an altercation near their business, highlighting how officers arrived within two minutes and took control of the situation almost immediately.
Additionally, the police department is vigilant about community safety. Officers on patrol noticed an unusual vehicle parked overnight at a church and conducted a thorough check. They discovered a door that had mistakenly been left open, ensured the church was secure, and left a note to inform the staff of their proactive measures.
Building rapport with businesses is crucial, as noted by one owner who appreciates the officers stopping by to check in: “We regularly have officers stop by just to say hi and let us know they’re here if we need them.” Their presence, particularly late at night, provides comfort to employees closing up for the evening.
Vacation checks for residents, as well as assistance with vehicle lockouts—ranging from keys left in the car to pets or children accidentally locked inside—are additional services that demonstrate the department’s commitment to community welfare. The cases highlighted thus far span the last five years, reflecting the ongoing goodwill that officers build every day.
Officers have also played an important role in community events, showcasing their commitment to building relationships and fostering trust. A volunteer rescue squad member emphasized the value of police presence during emergency calls, stating, “It’s crucial to know that when we get called out to a ‘hot scene,’ we stage nearby and wait for the police to give us the okay.”
For families, especially those with young children, the police department has provided invaluable safety recommendations. A local daycare expressed appreciation for the officers’ help in reviewing their incident response plan and familiarizing themselves with the building to ensure readiness.
The officers know the town geography better than anyone else, and their consistent presence in the community allows for much faster response times compared to those coming from outside who may not be as familiar with the area. Their proactive community policing efforts enable them to build strong relationships with residents and business owners, allowing them to recognize what is normal and what is not in our town. This community-specific knowledge aids officers in effectively investigating any abnormal situations, unlike officers who may not have the same familiarity with the town and its people.
A police officer is often the most visible face of our town government, serving as impactful ambassadors of Purcellville. They are what makes our town feel like a true small community.
Building Bridges with the Community
The Purcellville Police Department is not just focused on crises; they actively engage with community members to foster trust and collaboration. The proactive measures taken by officers, such as conducting checks on elderly, unresponsive individuals and responding quickly to neighborhood concerns, exemplify the department’s commitment to safeguarding every member of the community.
Reflecting on these remarkable stories, it is clear that the Purcellville Police Department embodies the essence of community policing. Through their wide range of services, each officer not only serves and protects but also invests in the well-being of residents, resonating with the values of compassion, bravery, and service.
Purcellville Police Department Services
Law Enforcement:
– First responders to all law enforcement calls for service within the Town of Purcellville. Often arriving before fire and rescue, officers can provide critical care before paramedics can arrive.
– Patrol officers enforce traffic violations, parking violations, investigate vehicle crashes, and manage traffic complaints.
– Unlike the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), officers handle criminal investigations, domestic-related events, service calls, and nuisance complaints, including juvenile issues.
– Officers provide proactive crime prevention measures such as after-hours business security checks, attend local HOA meetings, and conduct directed patrols of areas of concern.
– Unlike the LCSO, Purcellville PD does NOT take reports via online; our officers personally call or respond in person to take all police reports.
Other Services:
– Free crime prevention seminars—covering topics like gun safety, internet safety, human trafficking prevention, and multiple Civilian Response & Casualty Care (CRCC) courses for handling an active attack situation.
– Free fingerprinting services for those who work or live in Purcellville.
– Free criminal record checks.
– Free home security checks and monitoring for residents who have completed the House Check form while away for an extended period, such as on vacation.
– Free car seat safety checks by a Certified Car Seat Safety Technician.
– Free gun locks and medicine disposal bags.
Purcellville Police Community Outreach Programs:
– PPD & BetterALife Homework Club: A weekly mentoring/tutoring program that provides free meals to local students.
– Books & Badges: A monthly reading program at the Purcellville Library aimed at building relationships with younger community members.
– Coffee with a Cop: A bi-monthly program at various local Purcellville businesses open to all community members, featuring events like Kickball with Cops, Pop “sicle” with a Cop, Cookies & Crayons with Cops, Cupcake with a Cop, and the very popular Cocoa with a Cop.
– Prescription Drug Take Back Program: Conducted twice a year to collect unwanted or unused prescription drugs to prevent drug abuse.
– Purcellville Public Safety Day: Includes activities like the Pedal Purcellville bike ride with PPD officers, a bike decorating contest, bike safety courses, helmet fittings, and free helmet giveaways.
– National Night Out: Held on the first Tuesday in August—features a caravan of first responders throughout the town, stopping in neighborhoods to meet citizens and build trust and community.
– Job for a Day Program: Hosting local high school students to introduce them to law enforcement and provide hands-on learning experiences.
– Weekly local business visits to promote both local businesses and improve communication and relationships with the community.
Community Collections:
– Annual “Cram the Cruiser” food drive collecting non-perishable food and hygiene items for local food pantries and organizations.
– Annual back-to-school supplies drive to collect backpacks and school supplies for local children, which are then provided free of charge.
Town of Purcellville Events Supported by the Purcellville Police Department:
– Independence Day Parade: All Purcellville PD staff (sworn and professional) and Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) attend and support this event. The parade cannot occur without PPD critical staffing support to manage planning, traffic management, and safety.
– Holiday/Christmas Parade: Similar to the Independence Day Parade, PPD plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the event.
– Purcellville Food & Wine Festival: Critical staffing for safety and security provided by PPD officers; this event may not occur without PPD assistance.
– Purcellville Halloween in the Woods: Critical staffing for safety and security provided by PPD officers; again, this event may not happen without their assistance.
In light of the ongoing discussions about funding, it is crucial to acknowledge the vital role the Purcellville Police Department plays in our community. Their steadfast commitment to safety and service makes them a cornerstone of our town, and residents deeply appreciate their contributions.