The Race for Virginia Beach Sheriff: Candidates Share Their Visions!

As Virginia Beach gears up for a pivotal special election for the Sheriff’s office, candidates are stepping forward to share their unique qualifications and visions for the future. This election is not just about law enforcement; it’s about community safety, mental health, addiction recovery, and the overall well-being of our neighborhoods. Here’s a closer look at the candidates vying for this crucial position.

Candidate Spotlight: Rocky Holcomb

• Residence: Kempsville
• Age: 56
• Occupation: Sheriff of Virginia Beach
• Military Service: United States Marine Corps veteran
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from Regent University
• Endorsements: Virginia Beach FOP Lodge 8, Virginia Beach Police Benevolent Association, Virginia Beach Professional Fire & EMS (Local 2924)
• Website: rockyholcombvbsheriff.com

Rocky Holcomb’s Vision

Holcomb emphasizes his extensive experience within the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office, having served since 1991. He believes that his hands-on approach equips him uniquely to understand the nuances of law enforcement in the community. Some key points from his campaign include:

1. Enhancing safety and security at the Virginia Beach Courthouse.
2. Prioritizing mental health initiatives, including support for inmates.
3. Addressing addiction through rehabilitative programs like Road to Hope.

Candidate Spotlight: Aldo "Peacemaker" Dibellardino

• Residence: Great Neck
• Age: 55
• Occupation: Inventor and small business owner
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Virginia and MBA from Harvard Business School
• Endorsements: Various liberty and reform organizations
• Website: aldo4sheriff.com

Aldo Dibellardino’s Approach

Dibellardino positions himself as an outsider looking to bring fresh perspectives to the Sheriff’s office. His campaign focuses on reforming the system and addressing the root causes of crime through community engagement. Highlights of his platform include:

1. Implementing programs like Celebrate Recovery Inside to aid mental health and addiction recovery.
2. Promoting transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
3. Transforming jails into "soul hospitals" for rehabilitation.

The Issues at Stake

As these candidates prepare for the upcoming election, several pressing issues are at the forefront of their campaigns:

• Mental Health: How to best support inmates and the community.
• Addiction Treatment: The role of the Sheriff in addressing substance abuse.
• Community Safety: Strategies to enhance the security of public spaces.

What do you think?

• Do you believe that experience in law enforcement is more important than fresh perspectives in the Sheriff’s office?
• How can the Sheriff’s office better address mental health issues among inmates?
• Should addiction treatment programs be prioritized over punitive measures in jails?
• What role should community engagement play in the Sheriff's office?

This special election is set to shape the future of public safety and community well-being in Virginia Beach. As voters prepare to make their voices heard, it’s crucial to consider the candidates’ visions and how they align with the community’s needs. Stay informed and engaged!