Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Virginia State Police recently announced the winners of their HEAT Awards program, which saw Suffolk Sheriff’s Office awarded for their work in public outreach.

The department received the Public Outreach Award as part of the Virginia State Police Help Eliminate Auto Threat program in recognition of their efforts to reduce vehicle theft as well as theft of vehicle parts. The awards ceremony was held on Sept. 24 during the Virginia Sheriff’s Association’s annual conference in Virginia Beach.

Suffolk Sheriff’s Office joined Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, New Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Martinsville Sheriff’s Office and Frederick County Sheriff’s Office as well as four law enforcement officers in being recognized for their work. Full awards include:

Carroll County Sheriff’s Office – Certificate of Merit

Frederick County Sheriff’s Office – Certificate of Merit; Serving population of more than 100,000

Martinsville Sheriff’s Office — Public Outreach Award

New Kent County Sheriff’s Office – Serving population of 20,001 to 100,000

Suffolk Sheriff’s Office – Public Outreach Award

Deputy Blake Armstrong — Certificate of Merit

Deputy III David Cullers – Serving a population of more than 100,000

Deputy John Tanner – Serving a population of more than 100,000

Deputy Schuyler Sibley – Finalist for departments serving a population of 20,001 to 100,000

Likewise, the HEAT program provides the following safety tips for residents:

• Each time you leave your vehicle, take your keys and lock your doors
• Place your valuables in the trunk or somewhere out of sight. Never leave them in plain sight
• Always be aware of your surroundings while out and about
• Be sure to park in well-lit areas.
• Make an investment in an audible or visible deterrent.
• Make sure to install GPS or other tracking devices.

Established in 1992, the Virginia State Police Help Eliminate Auto Theft (HEAT) program was created to educate citizens and law enforcement about vehicle theft and vehicle parts. For more information, go to heatreward.com and vsp.virginia.gov.