VA HR396

Commends Thomas M. Woody of Mechanicsville on his retirement as lieutenant colonel from the Hanover County Sheriff's Office in February 2026 after nearly 40 years of service

Woody began his career on March 1, 1987, as a patrol deputy after graduating at the top of his class from the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy

Rose through the ranks over 39 years, holding leadership positions in Patrol Division, Investigative Division, Street Crimes Unit, and Training and Personnel Unit before becoming chief of staff to the sheriff in 2020

Received more than 100 commendations from citizens, supervisors, and coworkers throughout his career

Completed leadership training at Virginia Tech and the University of Richmond, and is recognized as a trusted mentor to younger officers in the department