The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has several updates to share. Recently, Executive Assistant to Sheriff Overton, Wanda Fralin, was recognized for her commitment to sheriff’s office. Additionally, Deputy John Lavinder and K9 Jethro participated in a week-long bloodhound training seminar. Lastly, the sheriff’s office reminds the community to be cautious when driving as schools open back up.
WoodmenLife Awards Sheriff’s Office Member
WoodmenLife and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office would like to recognize the Executive Assistant to Sheriff Overton, Wanda Fralin for her commitment to the community during the month of August. Sometimes heroes are the supporting staff that take care of others. This year, the sheriff’s office celebrates Ms. Wanda’s 30th year with the sheriff’s office.
Being in one place for 30 years, especially within the sheriff’s office, there are so many changes in people’s lives, growth within the community, and differences that occur in the world. Ms. Wanda can tell some stories of how everything worked a little differently back in the day. These days, things move a lot faster; there are a lot more people in the department and there is so much more to keep track of. But Ms. Wanda let says that there are some things that haven’t changed. She said, “I enjoy my job and love what I do in helping the staff take care for the community. While the number of people working here has grown tremendously, we still care about each other and do our best every day to protect and serve!”
Thank you Executive Assistant Wanda Fralin for all that you do in helping the community be a better place. Happy 30th Year Anniversary!
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Attends Annual Bloodhound Training Seminar
Recently, Deputy John Lavinder and K9 Jethro attended a week-long training seminar with Virginia Bloodhound Search and Rescue (VBSAR). Various agencies with Bloodhound Handlers gather each year for this training, where Deputy Lavinder is an Instructor. He is requested to instruct at seminars in various states, and is even annually hosted by an organization in Brazil as an International K9 Scent Training Instructor!
Deputy Lavinder has been a Bloodhound K9 Handler for 28 years, all with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. During this time, he has had seven bloodhounds in service for the department.
Thank you, Deputy Lavinder and K9 Jethro, for your service and dedication!
Glade Hill Youngster Celebrates Birthday in Style
A 7-year-old Glade Hill boy, Trevor Smith, celebrated his birthday in grand fashion on Tuesday, September 1. Trevor, a huge supporter of Law Enforcement and 1st Responders, was visited by members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, E911 Dispatch Center and Rocky Mount Police Department. These agencies participated in a drive-by parade, and stopped by to interact with Trevor and give him gift bags of presents.
As you can tell by the photos, Trevor was the “star of the moment.” Shelia Smith, Trevor’s mom, said, “This is so awesome. We have been wonderfully overwhelmed with an outpouring from the entire law enforcement and public safety community.” Trevor was visited recently by the Virginia State Police and Chesapeake Police Department bringing gifts and memorabilia.
Thanks to Rocky Mount Police Department and every who helped make this a great event. Happy Birthday, Trevor!!!
Franklin County Public Schools Prepare to Open
Franklin County schools will open on Tuesday, September 8th. The sheriff’s office asks that all residents stay alert, keeping off of their cell phones and watching out for children.
Residents will see new traffic patterns with the buses on the roadways, students waiting on their designated bus, and youngsters crossing the highways. Take a look at the image below and refresh your memory on stopping for a school bus loading and unloading students. PLEASE keep children safe this school year by being aware of their daily bus travel.
