Bacon: Bill Woolf’s Proud Record of Service

By Lt. James Bacon

It is often said that the work of a police officer is among the most challenging and demanding professions one can pursue. The long hours, the exposure to danger, and the emotional toll can be overwhelming.

As a police officer myself for 35 years, I know the toll it takes on the individual and family. I was also a supervisor of many different units throughout my career. I saw many, many good officers, and a few that weren’t so great. There were some, however, who not only rose to the challenge but exceeded all expectations, leaving an indelible mark on their communities and the people they serve.

One such individual is former Detective Bill Woolf, whose career with the Fairfax County Police Department stands as a testament to the impact that a dedicated and compassionate law enforcement officer can have.

As the supervisor of Detective Woolf, I had the distinct pleasure and privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible work that Bill did, first as a gang detective and then later as a human trafficking detective. His commitment to protecting our community and seeking justice for the most vulnerable among us has been nothing short of extraordinary.

During his tenure as a gang detective, Bill worked tirelessly to eradicate gang violence from our streets. He understood that to be successful, we needed to not only apprehend the perpetrators of violence but also address the root causes that lead individuals to join gangs in the first place. To this end, Bill was instrumental in developing and implementing community outreach initiatives where he focused on education, prevention, and intervention for those affected by gang violence.

Bill’s approach to community engagement was holistic, recognizing the importance of building strong relationships with community members, local schools, and other stakeholders. He fostered open lines of communication and worked to create a sense of trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community – particularly within Spanish speaking communities. His efforts helped our unit and our agency to be able to lower gang crime and improve the lives of those in the community.

But Bill’s work did not stop there. When he transitioned to investigating human trafficking, he brought with him the same passion and determination that had made him such an effective gang detective.

Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable among us, and Bill was relentless in his pursuit of justice for the victims, sometimes to his own detriment. His ability to connect with victims, earn their trust, and provide them with the support they needed was truly awe-inspiring.

Bill’s work in human trafficking led to the rescue of numerous individuals and the prosecution of countless traffickers. He worked closely with other law enforcement agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups to develop comprehensive strategies to combat human trafficking and support victims. His efforts have not only brought traffickers to justice but also raised awareness about the issue of human trafficking, shining a light on a crime that often goes unnoticed.

After his career with the police department, not only did he move on to serve the country as the Director of Human Trafficking Programs at the U.S. Department of Justice, but he also received the Presidential Medal for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons.

What truly sets Bill apart, however, is his commitment to building bridges within the community. He understood that the key to successful law enforcement is not just apprehending criminals, but also engaging with the community in a meaningful way.

Bill was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the community felt heard and understood. He regularly attended community meetings, listening to the concerns of residents and working to address them in a proactive manner. His open-door policy meant that anyone could come to him with their concerns, and he would do his utmost to address them.

Bill’s impact on the community extends far beyond the cases he has solved or the criminals he has brought to justice. His legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to justice. He has made our community a safer, more inclusive place, and for that, many community members have expressed to me how truly grateful they are.

It was an honor to work alongside such an outstanding individual, and I am confident that he will continue the same level of service in the Virginia State Senate serving all those in the community, just as I have seen him do as a detective.