Ernest L. Giles, Sr., Sheriff

Sheriff Ernest L. Giles, Sr., leads the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office and has worked for the Sheriff’s Office for over 30 years. On August 17, 1992, Sheriff Giles began his tenure with the Sussex Sheriff’s Office as a correctional deputy. He worked various roles within the jail, courts, and transportation departments, earning a promotion to Corporal in 1994. In 1999, he transitioned to the patrol division, advancing to Patrol Sergeant in 2004. While serving as a patrol sergeant, he also assisted in investigations at the request of Sheriff E. S. Kitchen Jr., though he did not pursue a full-time investigative role. In October 2013, he was promoted to Captain, bypassing the rank of Lieutenant. Following the untimely death of Sheriff Raymond R. Bell in June 2017, Giles, then Chief Deputy, decided to run for Sheriff. He won the special election in 2017 and has been honored to serve as Sheriff of Sussex County since. Sheriff Giles is actively involved in his community and various organizations. He is a member of the Rose of Sharon Apostolic Church in Waverly, the Free and Accepted Mason’s Lodge #70 in Waverly, the Sussex County Lion’s Club, and the Sussex Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he holds leadership positions, including Vice Chair of the Virginia Sheriff’s Institute and Executive Board Member/Past Vice-Chair of the Crater Criminal Justice Academy, among others. Sheriff Giles attributes his success to the Lord Jesus Christ, strong family support, relentless faith, a steadfast work ethic, and a "Keep It Moving" (K.I.M) attitude, enabling him to overcome obstacles and negativity.