Salvation Army in Maiden has fallen victim to a heartless group of thieves. The shameless gang has been stealing donations dropped off after hours by our generous community members.

Security cameras at the location on East Main Street have been capturing the thieves on camera since Fall of last year. The frequency of these thefts has dramatically increased in recent weeks and they are now almost a daily occurrence.

Maiden Police Department believes that several people may be involved in this organized crime. Please contact them at (828) 428-5005 if you have any information related to these thefts, or recognize any of the people or the vehicle in these photos.

If you have items to donate to Salvation Army, please drop them off during business hours to ensure they make their way safely into the hands of employees.

Capt Tyler Whisenant

On March 21st, 2024, Chief Tracy Ledford announced that Captain Tyler Whisenant has graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 15th, 2024. Tyler Whisenant is the first officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

The 289th session consisted of one-hundred and ninety-seven law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The 289th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 23 countries, four military organizations, and five federal civilian organizations.

“I am extremely proud of Captain Tyler Whisenant. His dedication to furthering his leadership skills at the FBI National Academy is proof that Captain Whisenant is committed to being the best public servant possible. I have no doubt Captain Whisenant will continue to improve our department by utilizing his knowledge, skills, and abilities learned at the Academy to better prepare us as a police organization. Focusing on public service, community engagement, and professionalism”. Tracy Ledford, Chief of Police

Captain Tyler Whisenant is a 15-year veteran of law enforcement serving the last 7 years with the Maiden Police Department. Captain Whisenant has served in numerous roles during his career to include patrol, investigations, and multiple supervisory positions.

Captain Whisenant holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, an Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate from North Carolina Criminal Justices Education and Training Standards Commission and has completed the Administrative Officers Management Program from North Carolina State University.

About the FBI National Academy
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits many of the courses offered. A total of 54,985 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.

Credit: Town of Maiden Facebook Page