Community Policing in Action: Fire Truck Pull Headlines Spring WCSO Events

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office has a new captain — and a full calendar of community events.

Captain Chris Powell, recently promoted after five years in criminal investigations, stopped by the Royal Examiner studio to talk about his new role and several upcoming programs, including a fire truck pull fundraiser for Special Olympics.

Powell began his career with the Sheriff’s Office as a School Resource Officer, then moved to patrol and later to criminal investigations. Now, he steps into a leadership role previously held by Major Frank Myrtle.

“It’s very new,” Powell said of the promotion. “I’m still working on it.”

One of the first major events he’s helping promote is the Fire Truck Pull set for April 11 at 9 a.m. in the Skyline High School parking lot near the football stadium.

Teams of eight to 10 participants will compete to pull a fire truck the fastest. The entry fee is $200 per team, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics.

“We’re trying to get as many teams as we can,” Powell said. “All the proceeds go to Special Olympics, and that’s a really good cause that we’re promoting with the Sheriff’s Office.”

The event promises friendly competition — and bragging rights — especially among first responders. Powell confirmed he plans to participate.

“I’m on the first responders team,” he said with a smile.

Anyone interested in forming a team or seeking more information can contact Master Deputy Burke at 540-635-4128.

The Fire Truck Pull is just one of several community-focused initiatives on the Sheriff’s Office calendar.

On March 5, the office will host an open house for the PAL (Police Athletic League) program at the Student Union. The presentation, led by Krista Beam and Deputy Dominguez, will offer information for families interested in learning more about the youth program.

On March 14, first responders will compete in the Heroes Challenge at the Randolph-Macon Academy gym. The event features pull-ups, sit-ups, bench press, tire flips, and tug-of-war. Warren County Fire and Rescue claimed the 2025 title, and the Sheriff’s Office hopes to reclaim it this year.

Looking ahead to spring, deputies will also participate in Easter activities, including walking with the Easter Bunny during visits to the senior center.

Another popular annual event, Cops and Bobbers, returns April 25. The youth fishing program begins at 7:30 a.m. and gives children the opportunity to fish alongside law enforcement officers.

Powell said these events reflect the Sheriff’s Office leadership’s emphasis on community policing.

“It’s all to build relationships with the community,” he said. “It takes the community to keep us all safe.”

By partnering with fire, rescue, and other first responders, the Sheriff’s Office aims to strengthen connections and create positive interactions beyond emergency calls.

As for the fire truck pull, Powell expects a true test of strength — and teamwork.

“We’ll be there with the bullhorn saying, ‘Pull,’” he said.