Orange County Sheriff's Office VA - Jason C. Smith, Sheriff

06/13/2026

While many are enjoying the weekend with family and friends, deputies are on patrol 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, serving and protecting Orange County. If you see one of our deputies out today, like Deputy Melchior, give them a wave.

06/11/2026

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office joins communities across the nation in recognizing Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Older adults are valued members of our families, neighborhoods, and community, and they deserve to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and scams targeting seniors. Unfortunately, many cases go unreported because victims may be afraid, embarrassed, or unsure where to turn for help.

Through our TRIAD Program, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office works closely with senior citizens throughout the community to provide education, resources, and crime prevention information. TRIAD helps strengthen the partnership between law enforcement, older adults, and community organizations to improve the safety and quality of life of our senior population. Whether discussing current scams, personal safety, fraud prevention, or available community resources, TRIAD serves as an important connection between our office and the seniors we serve.

We encourage everyone to check in on elderly family members, friends, and neighbors. Be alert for warning signs such as sudden changes in finances, unexplained injuries, unusual withdrawals from bank accounts, isolation from family and friends, or changes in behavior.

If you suspect an older adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, report it. A simple phone call could help protect someone who may be unable to protect themselves.

Together, we can help ensure that our senior citizens remain safe, respected, and supported members of our community.

06/10/2026

On June 10, 2026, Deputies Marks, Bickel, and Wallace conducted a consensual encounter with a male subject walking along Route 20 near Lafayette Drive.

During the encounter, deputies discovered the individual was carrying a concealed revolver in his waistband. Further investigation revealed that the subject was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing fi****ms or ammunition.

Justin David Robertson, 28, of Verona, Virginia, was arrested and charged with one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, one count of Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and one count of Carrying a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit.

Robinson was transported to the Central Virginia Regional Jail, where he was held without bond.

06/09/2026

We are very grateful that Corporal Amos was invited to help out with the launch of the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Thank you to all the volunteers that came together to make this happen! Our community is truly amazing.

06/08/2026

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office would like to advise the public that training exercises will be conducted today in the area of Route 522 and Route 20 near the landfill site.

During this training, residents may notice an increased presence of law enforcement and EMS vehicles in the area. This is a planned training event, and there is no cause for concern.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as first responders continue to train and prepare for real-world incidents. Thank you for your continued support.

06/08/2026

A special thank you to Walmart Wilderness for their continued generosity and support. Time and time again, they have donated countless items and volunteered their time, helping us make a positive impact in our community.

Because of their dedication and kindness, we have been able to give back to so many people over the years. We are incredibly grateful for all the support they have provided and for their commitment to helping others.

Thank you, Walmart Wilderness, for being such an important part of our mission and for making a difference in the lives of those we serve. We truly appreciate you!

06/07/2026

On June 6th, 2026, Deputy Marks and Deputy Bickel conducted a traffic stop in the Rhoadesville area on a known wanted subject. Michael John Smith, 36, of Rhoadesville, was taken into custody without incident. Deputy Wallace assisted with the arrest.

Smith was transported to the Central Virginia Regional Jail, where he was held without bond on the following outstanding warrants:

• Stafford County: Two felony counts of Probation Violation (19.2-306), underlying offense of Grand Larceny

• City of Fredericksburg: Six felony counts of Probation Violation (19.2-306), underlying offense of Grand Larceny

• Culpeper County: One misdemeanor count of Shoplifting (18.2-103)

We appreciate the efforts of our deputies and our law enforcement partners in helping ensure wanted individuals are taken into custody safely.

06/05/2026

🚨 Orange County Sheriff’s Office Physical Fitness Test Announcement 🚨

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a Physical Fitness Test on Tuesday, June 9th at 4:00 PM.

This is an important step in the hiring process for those interested in a rewarding career in law enforcement. Applicants should arrive early, dressed appropriately for physical activity, and prepared to participate in all testing events.

📍 Location: Public Safety Building
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM
📅 Date: Tuesday, June 9th 2026

A career in law enforcement requires dedication, professionalism, and physical readiness. If you are ready to serve your community and make a difference, we encourage you to apply.

For additional information about employment opportunities with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, please visit the Sheriff’s Office website or contact us directly.

06/04/2026

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office would like to congratulate Deputy J. Bickel and Deputy P. Melchior on successfully graduating from the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy Law Enforcement Basic Academy.

Over the past several months, both deputies have dedicated themselves to the demanding academic, physical, and practical training required to become Virginia law enforcement officers. Their hard work, commitment, and perseverance have prepared them for the next step in their careers.

We would also like to recognize Deputy Bickel for earning the Top Overall Skills Award for the entire academy class, an outstanding achievement that reflects his dedication and performance throughout the program.

Both deputies will now begin the Field Training Officer (FTO) program, where they will continue to develop their skills and gain valuable real-world experience. Upon successful completion of the FTO process, they will be assigned to their respective divisions and begin serving the citizens of Orange County.

Please join us in congratulating Deputy Bickel and Deputy Melchior on this accomplishment and wishing them success as they continue their law enforcement careers.

06/04/2026

Come out and join the Town of Orange Police Department for their Movie in the Park night. This will be hosted at Taylor Park on June 12th starting at 8:45pm. We hope to see you there!

Please come join the Town of Orange for MOVIE IN THE PARK, hosted by the Orange Police Department. We will be showing Hoppers on 6/12/2026! We will provide a movie screen and blanket/folding chair setting. Please bring something to sit in or on. The police department will be providing popcorn and water. Feel free to bring snacks or drinks (non-alcoholic). The movie will begin at 8:45 PM in Taylor Park and is free to the public. Tell everyone you know so that we can make this great community event a regular appearance on our public relations activities. We would love to see you and your children there!