2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26102065D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 15

Offered January 19, 2026

Commending Richard D. Hinkley.

—————

Patron—Walker

—————

WHEREAS, Richard D. Hinkley, an esteemed law-enforcement officer and police chief emeritus of the Liberty University Police Department, retired in 2025; and

WHEREAS, Richard Hinkley served his country honorably for four years as a member of the United States Air Force before attending Liberty University from 1977 to 1981, where he pursued a bachelor's degree in youth ministry; and

WHEREAS, as a bus driver with Liberty University's transit services, Richard Hinkley developed a friendship with Liberty University's chief of security David Heerspink, which inspired him to join the Liberty University security department in 1979; and

WHEREAS, after serving as both a corrections officer and deputy with the Clinton County Sheriff's Office in Plattsburgh, New York, from 1990 to 1996, Richard Hinkley returned to the Liberty University Police Department (LUPD) for the remainder of his career; and

WHEREAS, Richard Hinkley supported the LUPD in various capacities and was then promoted to chief of police in February 2009 after training under the previous chief, Howard Gregory; and

WHEREAS, Richard Hinkley's tenure as the chief of the LUPD was marked by his commitment to ensuring that the department achieved both state and national standards and that its officers prioritized developing positive working relationships with students; and

WHEREAS, Richard Hinkley was guided throughout his career by his deep and abiding faith, and he inspired his officers every day to embrace their duty to protect and serve the community; and

WHEREAS, with great dedication, compassion, and willingness to serve, Richard Hinkley has epitomized the ideals of the law-enforcement profession, earning the esteem and admiration of all Virginians; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Richard D. Hinkley, police chief emeritus of the Liberty University Police Department, hereby be commended on the occasion of his retirement; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Richard D. Hinkley as an expression of the House of Delegates' appreciation for his service and best wishes for a happy and fulfilling retirement.