Sheriff Cline Introduces Major Frank Myrtle as New Chief Deputy of Warren County Sheriff’s Office

At the January 8, 2026, Warren County Board of Supervisors meeting, Sheriff Crystal Cline formally introduced Major Frank Myrtle as the new Chief Deputy of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office. The announcement came following the December departure of Major Jason Winner, who accepted the position of Chief of Police in Berryville, fulfilling a longtime professional goal.

Sheriff Cline praised Winner’s achievements and leadership, saying she was proud to see him move on to lead his own agency. “It was great news for him—but admittedly tough news for me,” she told the Board. “That left me with the challenge of filling one of the most critical roles in our department.”

After a thorough search and careful consideration, Cline appointed Captain Frank Myrtle, then head of the Support Services Division, as her new Major and Chief Deputy. She introduced him at the meeting as a highly experienced and respected law enforcement leader.

Deep Experience Across Multiple Divisions

Major Frank Myrtle brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience to his new role. He began his career in 1999 with the Virginia State Police and served for 22 years with the Winchester Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to become a Captain. During his time in Winchester, Myrtle held leadership roles in the Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations, Administration, and the Office of Professional Standards.

In 2024, Myrtle joined the Warren County Sheriff’s Office as Captain of Support Services, where he oversaw School Resource Officers, Community Outreach, Court Security/Court Holding, and Civil Process. He will continue supervising those areas until a new captain is appointed.

Sheriff Cline said Myrtle had already proven himself to be a natural leader and reliable team member. “He’s led a little bit of everything. He’s been right there as part of our executive team and has done a phenomenal job.”

She also highlighted their shared service history: both she and Myrtle served as investigators and were members of the FBI’s Human Trafficking Task Force based in Winchester.

Elite Training and Strong Credentials

Myrtle’s background includes advanced law enforcement training and leadership development. In 2008, he graduated from the Virginia Forensic Science Academy. He later completed the Leadership in Policing Organizations (LPO) program through the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in 2018.

In 2023, he earned the FBI-LEEDA Leadership Trilogy Certificate, and in 2024, he graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy (Session 289)—a premier program for top law enforcement leaders worldwide.

“He’s one of the best-trained and most well-rounded officers I’ve worked with,” said Cline. “I’m confident he will serve Warren County with integrity and excellence.”

Rooted in the Region, Focused on Community

A graduate of Central High School, Major Myrtle lives in Shenandoah County and is a proud father to one daughter. He enjoys camping and spending time outdoors with family and friends whenever time allows.

In brief remarks at the Board of Supervisors meeting, Myrtle thanked Sheriff Cline for the opportunity and pledged to serve with dedication.

“I look forward to working with the Board and serving the residents of Warren County,” he said. “I’ll keep it short and sweet—thank you again.”

As Chief Deputy, Myrtle will support Sheriff Cline in managing department operations, leading staff, and maintaining public safety across the county.