Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
The Virginia State Police Help Eliminate Auto Theft (HEAT) program has honored law enforcement agencies and officers from across Virginia for their efforts in reducing vehicle theft and the theft of vehicle parts.
Awards were presented during the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police & Foundation Annual Conference on Aug. 26 in Williamsburg. A second ceremony will be held Sept. 16 at the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association Annual Conference in Virginia Beach.
The City of Salem Police Department was named the winner of the Agency category for departments serving populations of 20,001 to 100,000. Detective Jared Bridges of the Salem Police Department also received a certificate of merit in the Individual category for the same population group.
“Year-in and year-out, the Salem Police Department takes great pride in being recognized by the State Police for our efforts to eliminate vehicle thefts in the City of Salem. From July 2024-June 2025 Salem had 31 vehicle thefts and we were able to recover all but 2 of the cars,” Salem Police Chief Derek Weeks said. “We strongly encourage citizens to lock their cars when they are unattended. Most of these thefts occur when keys are left in the ignition, in plain sight, or when a car is left running.”
Other awards recognized troopers and officers from across the commonwealth, including Virginia State Police, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and local police departments in Chesterfield, Henrico, Culpeper, Roanoke and Newport News. Retired Detective Hao Truong of the Newport News Police Department received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
“These awards go beyond plaques and titles—they represent real people and real lives made safer through our HEAT program,” said First Sgt. Peter Lazear, statewide coordinator for the HEAT program. “From community education to smart enforcement, this work reduces crime, protects property and gives Virginians greater peace of mind.”
Lazear added that prevention often begins with simple steps. “Stealing a car is often a crime of opportunity, so taking proactive steps, like locking your vehicle or parking in well-lit areas, is a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of having your car or personal items stolen,” he said.
