*ROANOKE, Va. – In a remarkable milestone for local law enforcement, Winfred Hill, the first black man hired by the Patrick County Sheriff's Office, has officially retired after 28 years of dedicated service. His retirement marks him as the first black deputy to retire from the department, highlighting a significant moment in the history of the community.*
Reflecting on his journey, Hill stated, “I’ve always respected law enforcement. I went and put in an application, and that’s 28 years ago.” His commitment to service extends beyond his law enforcement career; prior to becoming a deputy, he made history in 1991 as the first Patrick County football player to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season.
Throughout his tenure, Hill faced challenges that shaped his character and approach to law enforcement. “I had to go through that in order to become the officer that I was,” Hill shared, noting how he has used his personal experiences to assist others in mental health situations.
Hill's career is marked by significant achievements, including successfully executing three knife takeaways, one of which occurred during a mental health crisis. His exemplary service was recognized by colleagues, with Chris Corbett praising Hill for his consistent demonstration of “common sense, compassion, and decency.”
As the community celebrates Hill's retirement, his legacy of strength and resilience continues to inspire those around him.
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