Meet David
As a Hampton Roads native, Sheriff Miles has 19 years of law enforcement experience, spanning different roles throughout the justice system. Sheriff Miles is also a 2001 honor graduate of Norfolk State University (Behold the Green and Gold!) with a B.S. in Mass Communications. With his experience and education, he has learned different techniques, strategies, and ideas related to law enforcement and community involvement.
In 2006, Sheriff Miles began his law enforcement career with the Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office, where he gained valuable experience in correctional and court operations. In 2009, Sheriff Miles and his wife decided to plant their roots in her hometown of Suffolk. This transition sparked the urge to serve the city he called home. After joining the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office in 2015, Sheriff Miles was quickly promoted to Sergeant in 2017 and then appointed to Chief Deputy in 2019, bypassing the ranks of Lieutenant and Captain.
As Chief Deputy, one of his primary responsibilities was to prepare the office for accreditation, which required him to review, write, and implement numerous policies and procedures. As a result, in September of 2021, the office received its first full accreditation status from the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. While Chief Deputy, he also spearheaded the office’s first annual Senior Expo event, which connected local senior citizens to various services and providers tailored to their needs.
On July 1, 2024, after the retirement of E.C. Harris, Sheriff Miles was appointed to assume the responsibilities as sheriff for the City of Suffolk. As a result of the timing of Harris’ retirement, Sheriff Miles was subsequently elected to complete the term in November of 2024. In his time with the office, Sheriff Miles has and continues to prioritize community engagement and involvement through a variety of programs, events, and age-specific seminars. [Comprehensive program list featured below]
In addition to ensuring the safety of entrants into the Mills E. Godwin Courts Complex and fulfilling the Sheriff's responsibilities set forth by the Code of Virginia, Sheriff Miles prioritizes supporting initiatives that address the core needs of the community such as food, housing, education, and health and safety. When Sheriff Miles is not working or volunteering, he enjoys spending time with his family and traveling to new places, fostering friendships and sharing ideas.
Memberships:
• Founder of the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office Charities Inc. 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
• Member – Virginia Sheriff’s Association
• Member – Western Tidewater Regional Jail – Jail Board
• Member – Suffolk Foundation
• Member – Suffolk Rotary Club
• Member – Suffolk Christian Fellowship Center
• Member – Suffolk Humane Society
• Member – Suffolk Salvation Army Advisory Board
• Past President – Suffolk Education Foundation
Certificates & Recognitions:
• FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award
• Suff.Impact 2025 A Night of Impact Award
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 2025 Community Service Award