Winchester Police Chief Amanda Behan is pleased to announce the selection of Joshua Berry to become the new Deputy Chief of Police, following a State-wide search.
Prior to his employment with the WPD, Deputy Chief Berry served as the Chief of Operations for Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office, where he was also the Regional SWAT Commander. As the Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief Berry supervised the patrol division, court security, K-9 unit, and school resource officers. He has experience in budgeting, grant writing, and procurement processes. Additional responsibilities and accomplishments include:
- Served as training officer for the Sheriff’s Office and oversaw the maintenance of training records
- Worked collaboratively with department leadership on community outreach programs and mental health services
- Established and supervised the Naloxone/NARCAN program
Deputy Chief Berry has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, a Master’s degree from Liberty University in Criminal Justice & Public Administration, and has successfully completed numerous leadership trainings. He has a passion for law enforcement preparedness and is looking forward to supporting the men and women of the WPD and being an advocate for the Winchester community. He is also a proud husband and father.
Deputy Chief Berry was selected following a background, polygraph, and two panel interviews which included community and business members and representation from City of Winchester departments and regional law enforcement agencies. Chief Behan describes Deputy Chief Berry as loyal, driven, and dedicated. “Because of these qualities and his strong value system, Deputy Chief Berry will serve the community and our staff with the highest level of integrity and commitment,” said Chief Behan, “Josh will accomplish great things at the WPD.”
Finally, Chief Behan extends the greatest of appreciation to Captain Wally Stotlemyer for his service in the role of acting Deputy Chief. His partnership and leadership of the Command Staff kept the WPD momentum moving forward. Chief Behan will sorely miss Captain Stotlemyer when he retires at the end of the year. Chief Behan stated, “Wally and I grew up in our careers at the WPD together. I worked alongside him on midnight shift at the start of my career and now as my Deputy Chief at the end of his career. This time with Wally has been an honor.”