The NLC named the Bedford County (Virginia) Sheriff's Office as Child Defender of the Month for October 2007. 

NLC Executive Director, Richard Whidden, presented the award to Lt. Mike Harmony (left) and Sgt. Rodney Thompson  (right) prior to their presentation at the 10th NLC PROTECTS Seminar in Connecticut.   

The Bedford County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division has been a leader in investigating Internet crimes against children for several years. Under the leadership of Sheriff Mike Brown and unit commander Lt. Harmony, Operation Blue Ridge Thunder has resulted in the arrest of a number of child pornographers and child sexual exploitation suspects.  According to Sheriff Brown, the goal of the unit is to "weave a seamless web of protection around our youth" by working proactively and diligently to apprehend perpetrators, protect victims, and educate parents, teachers, and children.

The Office has also raised public awareness through educational programs in southern Virginia.  The unit's commander and investigators have made over 100 presentations to community groups, teachers, parents, administrations, and fellow law enforcement professionals. 

The NLC is proud to recognize the Bedford County Sheriff's Office as the October 2007 Child Defender of the Month.