First African-American female promoted Lieutenant in city’s Sheriff Office
Sgt. Kim Vanessa Ashford became the first African-American female promoted to Lieutenant at the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office Monday, March 25.
The William Fleming High School alumni served in the U.S. Army for 7 years as a Sergeant before joining the Sheriff’s Office.
She was hired in July of 1995 when the annex was being completed to expand the Jail’s operation. Kim’s career began in the Jail Security Division where she served as a deputy on Watch IV. Within 7 years, she was transferred to the Court Security Division to assist with daily Courthouse procedures.
Kim was promoted In 2008 to Sergeant in the Professional Standards Unit with the title Background Investigator. Her responsibilities included assisting testing applicants, doing their background checks and making sure they got through the hiring process successfully.
She willingly goes every day above and beyond to help serve the mission of this department and treats her coworkers like family and friends. Her vibrant personality makes her easy to talk to, confide in and want to be around.
Lt. Ashford will be an important asset to the city in her newly acquired position as a Watch Commander.
Lt. Ashford is the daughter of Kirby Whitfield, Sr. and the late Francis Whitfield and has been a Roanoke City resident since age five. She is also the proud mother of JaVontè and Omni Ashford.
