William Watson for Portsmouth Sheriff

PORTSMOUTH - William "Bill" Watson was elected as the City of Portsmouth's Sheriff in November of 2005, and assumed office on January 1, 2006. He has over 21 years of law enforcement experience. His education and training include his certification from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, past Field Training Officer, Radar Instructor, Emergency Vehicle Operator Instructor, and General Instructor, as well as attendance in numerous other local and state law enforcement training programs.

Sheriff Watson was born and raised in the City of Portsmouth. As the son of a Portsmouth Firefighter and with a family in different branches of Public Service, he was introduced to Civic Duty at an early age. He graduated from Cradock High School in 1965, served in the Navy, is a Past President of the Highland Biltmore Civic League, retired from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in 1990, and is a certified diver with 31years of experience in search and rescue.

Sheriff Watson is a member of the Virginia Sheriff's Association, a 32nd degree Scottish Rite member, and a life member of Portsmouth Lodge #100 AF & AM. He is also an advocate for M.A.D.D. and the Virginia Drive Safe Program.

Sheriff Watson has received recognition such as; 1995 Portsmouth Sheriff's Office Award for Highest Yearly Evaluation, and was a nominee for the 1996 and 1997 Golden Rule Award with letters from President Bill Clinton for Community Service. His understanding of Community has not diminished over the years. He and his staff are a visible presence at events around the City, and through his Community Service Unit with programs such as the Elderly Watch, Crime Prevention, Kid Watch, Project lifesaver, Triad, Ident-A-Kid, Scared Straight, Security Surveys, H.E.A.T., and in the participation in Meals on Wheels for Portsmouth. Bill Watson is a hands on, working Sheriff.

Bill resides in Portsmouth, in the same neighborhood his parents lived. He and his wife of 35 years Joyce Wilburn Watson have two children and two grandchildren.

Related Link:

Bill Watson's Campaign Website