VCU news

By Mike Porter

The Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department hired three new officers, promoted six current personnel and said goodbye to a retiring lieutenant during a ceremony and reception last Friday at the new VCU security headquarters on West Grace Street.

Ian Mcallister, Enrique Valladares and Surafel Wondimu were sworn in as the department’s newest officers by Richmond Circuit Court Clerk Bevill Dean.

“When one chooses to become an officer, he or she has chosen to serve others over themselves,” said Sgt. Nicole Dailey, who introduced the new officers. “They have made a selfless decision to live a life of devotion towards making the community better for everyone. Our agency is grateful to have been sought out by three ambitious men as their law enforcement home.”

The department also promoted William Butters and Christopher Preuss to the rank of lieutenant and promoted James Deford, Nicholas Hill, Ishaq Lee and Jonathan Siok to the rank of sergeant.

“To our new officers, I expect the best that you have to offer each and every day,” said Chief John Venuti. “To our newly promoted officers, you have earned the privilege to wear a new badge today. Now it is up to you to earn the right to keep it.”

All of the promoted personnel were required to develop a community outreach proposal and will now implement those proposals.

The ceremony also recognized Lt. Frank O. Weaver, who retired after 30 years with the force.

“Frank has contributed the majority of his adult working life to making VCU a safer place to work, study and live for all of us.  For this we are here today to give him solemn thanks for a job well done, congratulations for earning his retirement and good luck for his future endeavors,” said Capt. David Welch.

Welch said Weaver was instrumental in developing VCU’s card access security system.