28-04-2025
Chesapeake sheriff is being challenged by a city police officer
Chesapeake Sheriff David Rosario is being challenged in the Republican Primary by Chesapeake police lieutenant Wallace Chadwick. Rosario took control of the city's sheriff's office in November after longtime Sheriff Jim O'Sullivan retired. Both Rosario and Chadwick have more than two decades of law enforcement experience, with all of Rosario's time spent in the sheriff's office and all of Chadwick's in the police department.
Primary elections are June 17. But early voting begins May 2.
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Age: 47
Employment: Lieutenant, Chesapeake Police Department
Education: Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, University of Phoenix
Military Service: U.S. Marine Corps veteran
Party Affiliation: Republican
Website:
How closely will you cooperate with the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in enforcing federal immigration law?
As Sheriff, I will fully cooperate with ICE and all federal immigration enforcement— no exceptions. Enforcing the law isn't optional. When local leaders refuse to work with federal agencies, they put our communities at risk by releasing violent offenders back onto our streets. I've been clear and consistent on this from day one. My opponent refused to cooperate with ICE until public pressure forced a reversal. Voters deserve a Sheriff who doesn't wait for political winds to shift. I'll always back the rule of law and put the safety of Chesapeake families first.
What will you do to reduce staffing shortages at your local jail, both now and in the future?
Chesapeake's Sheriff's Office is close to full staffing, thanks to competitive pay and strong benefits from City Council. To ensure fiscal responsibility, I support a full audit of programs and spending to confirm funds are used wisely. To retain and attract top talent, we must double down on what works: good pay, top-tier training, and a culture where deputies feel valued. That means promoting from within, expanding wellness programs, and creating leadership opportunities. This job is tough, and our deputies deserve a Sheriff who has their back—every shift, every day.
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Age: 59
Employment: Sheriff, City of Chesapeake
Party Affiliation:Republican
Website:
How closely will you cooperate with the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in enforcing federal immigration law?
The Chesapeake Sheriff's Office has a policy in place that fully cooperates with the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.), and as Sheriff, I stand by that policy. We've strengthened our cooperation by adopting I.C.E. best practices, including the 48-hour detainer hold, which gives I.C.E. additional time to take custody of individuals in our jail. Public safety is our top priority, and working with our federal partners ensures that individuals who may pose a risk to our community are handled appropriately, while respecting due process and the law.
What will you do to reduce staffing shortages at your local jail, both now and in the future?
With 23 years of experience in every aspect of the Chesapeake Sheriff's Office, I've worked hard to transform our work culture — boosting morale, empowering staff, and building a values-driven environment. Our efforts are paying off, with a low vacancy rate of just 4.30% in April. This success is a direct result of investing in our staff and creating a workplace where people feel valued and supported. To keep moving forward, I'll continue expanding recruitment, enhancing training and development opportunities, and working with city leadership to ensure competitive pay and benefits. Our people are our greatest asset—and investing in them is the key to long-term staffing success.
