Prince William County Police Chief to Retire

Police Chief Charlie Deane served for 24 years

Prince William County Police Chief Charlie Deane will retire in September, according to a county announcement. Deane has held this position for more than 24 years, making him one of the longest-serving police chiefs in the country.

"The Police Department has been much of my life for the past 42 years," Deane said in a release. "I will miss the daily contact with the great women and men of the Police Department, fellow County employees and the members of the community who make this such a rewarding place to work.”

As chief, Deane oversaw numerous high-profile investigations, including the D.C. sniper case, the East Coast rapist case, and the county’s handling of the illegal immigration enforcement issue. In 2007 and 2008, Deane fought a policy that would force officers to check the immigration status of anyone suspected to be in the country illegally. Some called for him to resign, while others praised him, reported the Post.

Deane’s retirement was announced by Prince William County Executive Melissa Peacor.

"This is a tough day for me personally and for the County," Peacor said in a release. "Chief Deane has served the citizens of this County with unparalleled integrity and commitment.  Charlie has served with many County Executives over the years, and I believe I can speak for all of us when I say that he has been both a friend and an advisor.”

Deane was also vice president of the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a law enforcement think tank in Washington, D.C.

Corey Stewart, Chairman of the Board of County Supervisors, said that he was honored to work with Deane.

“Chief Deane has provided outstanding service to the citizens of Prince William County and leadership to the Police Department and the entire organization," he said. "He has presided over a department known for its excellence and integrity, and although we are sad to see him go, he leaves us with a department made up of men and women who share his professionalism.”

After retirement, Deane will take some time off before determining his professional future. He plans to fish, travel and work on his family farm in Orange County.

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