Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office appoints first Filipino American chief deputy
Photo from Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office/ Facebook
A new milestone was set once again by another Filipino American, adding to the list of Pinoy achievers abroad.
Capt. Alvie Culanding established his name in the law enforcement scene as the first Filipino American to sit as chief deputy at Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Rocky Holcomb couldn’t be more proud of Culanding’s appointment. “Chief Deputy Alvie Culanding represents the very best of the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Holcomb.
“He has valiantly served the citizens of Virginia Beach for the last 26 years and will make an absolutely superb chief deputy,” he added.
Before his promotion on Oct. 4 and succeeding Sheriff Holcomb in the position, he had a remarkable career at Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office (VSBO).
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“For me, being promoted as the first Filipino American chief deputy in the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office and one of very few, if any, in Virginia, is a point of pride. Regardless of my heritage, promotions are earned, and I am grateful for this opportunity,” said Culanding in a news release.
Having served as a captain of the Courts Division, he oversees various tasks, including civil process, court security, transportation, emergency management, fleet management, and the crisis negotiation team.
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Alvie Culanding: Beyond the law enforcement
With or without his badge, chief deputy Culanding is a hero. He was the co-founder of the Filipino American Law Enforcement Officers Association of Virginia.
He also regularly donates blood to the American Red Cross, proving his dedication to the community is as solid as his commitment to duty.
Such dedication to the community is worth recognizing. Chief deputy Culanding received the 2023 FILAM CAG Leadership Award from the Filipino American Action Group.
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In addition, his contributions to law enforcement and the community earned him recognition as one of Hampton Roads’ Top Filipino History Makers and Shakers by FILAM CAG and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations—Capital Region in 2022.
Chief deputy Culanding’s new role will handle VSBO administration, including human resources, court security, training, and finance. He will also work closely with chief deputy of operations Tina Mapes.
Setting an example for future aspirants in the law enforcement scene, a warm welcome to new chief deputy Culanding.
