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Law Enforcement Commendation, Mike Spiggle, Detective, Harrisonburg Police Department Fire Safety Commendation, Dustin Lucas, Lieutenant, Rockingham County Fire & Rescue EMS Commendation, Samantha Dull, Duty Officer, Harrisonburg Rescue Squad Heroism Award, Senior Probation Officer, Daniel Deavers, District 39 Office Life Saving Award, School Nurse, Tara Cruey, Shenandoah Elementary School Law Enforcement Commendation Mike Spiggle, Detective, Harrisonburg Police Department Detective Spiggle has served the field of law enforcement with distinction and dedication for over 30 years, beginning his career in 1994 and joining the Harrisonburg Police Department in 1997. Throughout his tenure, Detective Spiggle has consistently demonstrated exceptional service, particularly in his role as a Detective in the Criminal Investigations Division where he has been assigned since 2001. As a key member of the Major Crimes Unit, Detective Spiggle has not only been a skilled investigator but also a mentor and role model for his peers. His commitment to guiding and developing new investigators has significantly strengthened the unit's capacity to handle complex cases. He possesses a broad expertise in both violent and white-collar crimes, acquired through his relentless pursuit of knowledge and unwavering commitment to solving cases. His dedication has led him to collaborate with law enforcement professionals at both state and federal levels, reinforcing his reputation as a respected and trusted colleague. Detective Spiggle's exceptional record as a homicide investigator stands out as a testament to his devotion to justice. He consistently maintains one of the highest case closure rates within the division, and his substantial contributions have earned him the unofficial position of primary homicide investigator for the Harrisonburg Police Department. His tireless work to bring justice to victims and their families exemplifies his commitment to the values of law enforcement. In addition to his work on active cases, Detective Spiggle has played a crucial role in advancing Harrisonburg's efforts towards solving four longstanding cold cases. His relentless pursuit of new information and evidence demonstrates his determination to seek justice, no matter how much time has passed. Detective Spiggle is a longstanding Polygraph Examiner for the Harrisonburg Police Department, performing not only criminal investigations polygraphs but also polygraph examinations for new hire employees. Additionally, he is an active member of HPD’s Crisis Negotiations Team where he utilizes his gift to verbally communicate and deescalate situations. Detective Spiggle’s unwavering professionalism and his positive, light-hearted demeanor have made him an invaluable asset to the Harrisonburg Police Department and the Major Crimes Unit. Despite decades of investigating some of the most difficult and heinous crimes, he remains grounded and approachable, known for his quick wit, sarcastic humor, and steadfast commitment to his colleagues, his community, and his family. Over his career, Detective Spiggle has received numerous letters of recognition from citizens, his supervisors and partner agencies. He has also received multiple professional commendations including the Kiwanis Lawperson of the Year, Commendable Action, and two Awards of Excellence. Detective Spiggle exemplifies the highest standards of law enforcement, and his service and accomplishments are deserving of the Law Enforcement Commendation and Medal. Nominated by Todd Miller - Deputy Chief, Harrisonburg Police Department Fire Safety Commendation Dustin Lucas, Lieutenant, Rockingham County Fire & Rescue Lieutenant Dustin Lucas has been serving with Rockingham County since July of 2010. Before joining Rockingham County full-time, he was and continues to be actively involved with the Shenandoah Volunteer Fire Company in the Town of Shenandoah. Lieutenant Lucas, known for his outstanding paramedic skills, is highly regarded within the department and is always ready to mentor and train the next generation of paramedics. He consistently goes above and beyond in providing care to patients during the most distressing and traumatic events of their lives. Lieutenant Lucas is committed to enhancing his skills and stays updated on the latest advancements in pre-hospital medical care. Currently serving as the B Shift Lieutenant stationed in Elkton, his leadership qualities are evident from the high praise he receives from his subordinates for his exceptional pre-hospital patient care abilities. His friendly and compassionate demeanor is reflected in the numerous calls and letters received by the department from patients and their family members expressing gratitude for his support during their time of need. Lieutenant Lucas has dedicated his life to assisting others in their time of need, and his selflessness is truly commendable. It is my belief that he deserves this recognition for his unwavering dedication to his community and its citizens. Nominated by Jeremy Holloway, Chief/Rockingham County Fire & Rescue EMS Commendation Samantha Dull, Duty Officer, Harrisonburg Rescue Squad Samantha Dull serves as a Duty Officer, Advanced Provider, EMT Preceptor, and Driving Preceptor for the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad. Samantha serves on the Board of Directors, Membership Committee, and Training Committee as the Charlie Branch Training Lieutenant. As a preceptor and Training Lieutenant, Samantha has focused on the successful training and release process of countless providers over her membership. Samantha dedicates many hours to both administrative and operational duties at the rescue squad, and is an ever-present resource and positive force for the membership. Samantha’s dedication to the Harrisonburg-Rockingham community does not stop at the rescue squad, as she also works full time as an EMT in a local Fire-Rescue agency. It is with great pride that I nominate Samantha Dull for the Emergency Medical Services Commendation and Medal on behalf of the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad. Nominated by Mike Neff, President Harrisonburg Rescue Squad Heroism Award Daniel Deavers, Senior Probation Officer, District 39 Office On the evening of August 21, 2024, Daniel was driving home into Page County when he saw a young lady (in her 30's) carrying a bag walking along the bridge on Route 602 at the Rockingham County/Page County Line. This bridge is at least 60 feet high over the South Fork of the Shenandoah River. Daniel noticed that she appeared to possibly be a little upset and noted that it was odd to him that she would be walking across the bridge. In following his instincts, he got across the bridge and turned his vehicle around and started back to her. At that point, he observed her throw her bag into the river, from the top of the bridge, and then she started to climb up onto and out to the ledge of the bridge, holding on with one hand. When seeing this, Daniel's instincts kicked in and he immediately began slowly walking towards her showing her his badge and talking to her trying to get her to calm down. He could tell that she was under the influence from the way she was talking. Daniel then positioned himself on the ledge of the bridge also and was able to get close enough to her to grab her and get her off the ledge. He continued to hold on to her while talking to her to try and calm her down and get her into a safe space so she could not harm herself. Daniel was able to get the female back to his vehicle. Once they were in his truck, he contacted EMS, and they responded immediately. This young lady's life was saved because of Daniel and his heroism, putting his own life in jeopardy to save this female from going off the edge of the bridge. She has never been on probation and Daniel had never encountered her before. Daniel later learned from EMS that she reportedly suffers from mental health issues, possible substance abuse issues, and had just lost custody of her children. In speaking with Daniel’s supervisor, Joshua Lutz, Josh said Daniel has replayed this in his mind over and over again, and about how things could have gone much differently. However, just before they ended their conversation, Daniel mentioned that the Lord must have put him there at that time for a reason and he was glad that he was able to help. He said all his training and experience was an asset to him, and he mentioned one last thing. He said that this is what we do, we are in positions where when we can help, and we should no matter the situation. His supervisor stated that last sentence sums it up the best not just for Daniel, but for so many who work with individuals who are struggling in life. Nominated by : Josh Lutz, Chief Probation Officer, District 39 Office, VADOC Life Saving Award Tara Cruey, School Nurse, Shenandoah Elementary School
The day began as usually on November 6, 2023, at Shenandoah Elementary School. The usual hustle and bustle of the students was heard in the hallways, laughter and banter. What followed that day was Taras’s worst nightmare. The Principal at Shenandoah Elementary School came to Tara and asked if she would check on a staff member who was not feeling well. Tara was informed of where and who the staff member was, and she made her way to them. When she arrived at the room where the staff member was located, Tara noticed that the staff member did not look like herself. Tara asked the staff member what was going on, and the staff member replied with "She just don't feel right." Alarms went off in Tara’s mind instantly and Tara sent another staff member down to the clinic to obtain extra supplies while Tara continued to assess the staff member. During her assessment, Tara found the patients vitals were not WNL, or not within normal limits, and Tara advised the staff member she should seek additional medical attention. Tara then contacted the staff members family to advise them also. While waiting for the staff members family to arrive, the staff member requested to lie down, and Tara noticed that her condition was deteriorating, and continued to keep her engaged in conversation. Shortly after this, the staff member stopped communicating with Tara at which time Tara reassessed the staff member and found her to be unresponsive and not communicating. The victim was lying on her stomach and Tara asked for help to roll her on her back. Tara immediately checked for a pulse and found no pulse, at which time Tara directed other school staff member to call 911. At this time, Tara began chest compressions and CPR . After a time of performing chest compressions and CPR, the victim regained a pulse and began breathing again. Tara continued to monitor her until the EMS arrived and reported her finding to EMS. It should be noted the victim made a full recovery, but would most likely have not survived this incident without the quick thinking and skills of Tara Cruey. Nominated by : Chris Rush, Fort Harrison Chapter
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