Delegate Onzlee Ware (D) of Roanoke was presented with the Outstanding & Distinguished Legislative Service Award at the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association annual banquet held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott
The award was given in recognition of outstanding legislative service for the improvement of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice in Virginia. Delegate Ware was one of two delegates in the General Assembly to receive this prestigious award because of his support for sheriffs and deputy sheriffs across the Commonwealth.
Executive Director of the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association, John Jones said, “As a member of the Compensation and Retirement Sub-committee, Delegate Ware is keenly aware of the deputy sheriff’s salary issue that we have faced, especially in recent years. While the General Assembly provided a 3% salary increase, he has consistently indicated his support for adequate salaries for deputy sheriffs to at least bring them above the federal guidelines to qualify for public assistance. As a member of the Public Safety Sub-committee, his jurisdiction includes policy and funding decisions for law enforcement.”
Jones continued, “Delegate Ware has been a supporter of the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association and has always had an open door policy on legislation that he has introduced for others that impacts sheriffs. He is always a friend to listen to our concerns and take whatever action is possible to address the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association’s legislative agenda and concerns.”
Carla M. Bream