Agency News
VADOC Officer, Fallen K9 Partner Honored by National Law Enforcement Organization
July 02, 2024
A national organization dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers has recognized a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) K9 Officer and her K9 partner as its Officers of the Month for April 2024.
In a June 20 release, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) honored Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and her partner Rivan for their actions to restore order during a violent altercation at Sussex I State prison on April 2. Indictments in the case were announced Friday, June 28. Read more on the VADOC website.
Rivan, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois who joined the K9 Unit in 2019, protected his partner but subsequently died because of his injuries.
“Both Officer Phillip Fields and Rivan were heroic that day. The loss of Rivan is tragic, and one we must not forget,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “We appreciate the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund efforts to bring attention to our heroes Officer Phillip Fields and Rivan.”
“Today, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is proud to announce K-9 Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and her partner, Rivan, of the Sussex State Prison as our Officers of the Month for April 2024,” said William Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “Their actions exemplify the highest standards of valor and dedication in law enforcement, with Rivan’s legacy serving as a profound reminder of the bond between K-9 officers and their human partners.”
The NLEOMF Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour, and honors federal, state, and local officers who demonstrate exceptional law enforcement service and unwavering dedication to duty, according to the NLEOMF.