Virginia Beach Sheriff Ken Stolle today announced the appointment of the first LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Liaison to the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office. Effective immediately, the position will be held by Cpl. Guy Saucier, a tenured law enforcement officer.

The purpose of creating the LGBT Liaison position is to continue ensuring an inclusive work environment for everyone – regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity – and work to break down any barriers that may exist between law enforcement and the LGBT community. The LGBT Liaison will work closely with the Human Rights Commission Liaison, serve as a resource for sworn and civilian staff on LGBT issues in the workplace and represent the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office at community events.

“I am proud to appoint the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office’s first ever LGBT Liaison,” said Sheriff Ken Stolle. “I know Cpl. Guy Saucier will do a great job and will play a vital role as we expand our community outreach, improve our diversity and work toward effectively representing every part of our community.”

Cpl. Saucier has nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, including more than six years with the Air Force Security Forces and more than 21 years with the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office. He is currently assigned to the VBSO’s Training Division, where he is the lead firearms instructor and a Crisis Intervention Team instructor.

“I am honored to accept the appointment by Sheriff Stolle as the LGBT Liaison for the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office,” said Cpl. Saucier. “I look forward to working with our community in this role and serving as a resource and advocate for LGBT individuals at the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office and at large.”

The position was created in consultation with Hampton Roads Pride.

“Hampton Roads Pride is grateful to the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office for appointing an LGBT Liaison Officer, an important position which will surely enhance the relationship between the Sheriff’s Office and the LGBT community,” said Hampton Roads Pride President Michael Berlucchi. “This appointment represents the ninth liaison position created at a principal Hampton Roads law enforcement agency and is a reflection of our collective desire to build mutual trust and understanding. We are fully committed to doing everything we can to support the work of the Sheriff’s Office to promote equity and inclusion in the workplace and in our community.”

The appointment was also praised by the Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission.

“We thank the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office for being such a great partner with the Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission,” said commission Chairman Raj Islam. “The Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office regularly demonstrates its commitment to serve citizens by promoting dignity and inclusion within our City. We are proud to be a part of this wonderful occasion.”

Sheriff Ken Stolle, Cpl. Guy Saucier and Hampton Roads Pride President Michael Berlucchi will be available for media interviews today at noon at the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office at 2501 James Madison Blvd. Those interested should come to the Administration Lobby entrance facing James Madison Boulevard.