I do not know why they did not seek available grants to provide the needed training and equipment for our officers in the field. Whether it was oversight, political, personal or a lack of knowledge is not the point. The point is that accreditation, accountability, corroboration with neighboring counties and funding is needed in Fluvanna County, not business as usual.
There is hope. There is someone with the willingness and knowledge to pursue those things mentioned above. A fresh wind is blowing; his name is Mark Belew and he is running for sheriff of Fluvanna County. Detective Belew currently works for the Albemarle County Police Department in their Internet Crimes Against Children division. Some people have tried to paint Mark as “young,” but his youthful appearance belies his depth of experience. He is dedicated to law enforcement, and has been tenacious in his continued training and quest for excellence. Mark brings a wealth of experience to the table. He received his Associates Degree in Police Science from PVCC, and his Bachelor’s Degree from UVA. He holds titles such as Special Deputy United States Marshal, Crime Scene Forensic Technician, Firearms Instructor, Field Training Officer/Detective, Simunitions “Force on Force” Instructor, Police Academy Instructor, Background Investigator and SWAT.
At a recent meet and greet, Detective Belew stated that because of his involvement in an ongoing, headline investigation, he has not been able to get out and go door-to-door as much as he would like. He asked his supporters to help fill the gap, as he continues to perform his sworn duties. He stated, “I’m not a politician; I just want to be a cop.” This is exactly what Fluvanna needs. He has my vote on Nov. 4.
Debbie Rittenhouse
Cunningham District
(Editor’s Note: We are running this letter on our website and Facebook page because it was inadvertently left out of this week’s issue. The election is Nov. 4)
