Meet Sean
Sean was born and raised in Alexandria. He graduated from T.C. Williams High School in 2000, and attended Virginia Tech where he earned a degree in psychology.
After college, Sean fulfilled his lifelong dream to be an Alexandria Police Officer. In 2005, Sean and two other officers were stabbed multiple times while apprehending a burglary suspect in Old Town Alexandria. Sean received the Medal of Valor for his bravery and sacrifice. Sean continued his career at the police department for another 13 years, where he distinguished himself as an excellent detective and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
In 2017, Sean joined the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office, when he was appointed by Sheriff Dana Lawhorne to direct the Investigations, Policy, and Oversight Section. Sean excelled in this position and the Sheriff promoted him to Lieutenant to help command the Administrative Services Division. In this role, Sean developed various community, public safety, and new technology initiatives for the Office. In 2020, the Sheriff appointed Sean to the rank of Captain, where he led the Office’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following Sheriff Lawhorne's retirement in 2021, Sean ran to succeed him and was elected Sheriff of Alexandria in November 2021, officially beginning his first term on January 1, 2022. As Sheriff, Sean has delivered results that enhanced public safety, strengthened community trust, and fostered a professional, inclusive, and innovative organization. He has also achieved significant milestones across a wide range of focus areas, from safety and security to community engagement and employee wellness.
Sean is also an active member of the Alexandria community. In 2019, Sean received the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce 40 under 40 Award and in 2020, he served as president of the Brookville-Seminary Valley Civic Association and now holds the membership secretary role on the board. Sean is a member of the Alexandria Democratic Committee, former co-chair of the Alexandria Democratic Committee Labor Caucus, and a member of the Alexandria Lions Club,. He also serves as a tutor for the “Youngins in Progress” program at Alexandria City High School, and as a coach for youth sports in Alexandria.
Sean currently resides in the Brookville-Seminary Valley neighborhood with his wife Amanda, who is also a lifelong Alexandrian, and their two daughters.