Virginia Churches Update Security Measures

Virginia Churches Update Security Measures

“An off-duty police officer in uniform,” Fr. Steve DeLeon said. "It's sad. It’s supposed to be a place of worship where everybody should feel safe, but I think we are living in different times."

  • By Jessica Davis
  • Dec 10, 2018

Several churches in Hampton Roads, Va., are working to improve safety and security for their congregations following an increase in shootings at houses of worship.

Last year, 26 people were killed at a Baptist church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, and earlier this year 11 people were killed in an attack at a synagogue in Pittsburgh. Fr. Steve DeLeon of Star of the Sea Catholic Church at the Oceanfront said the synagogue shooting drove home how important security is for places of worship.

"I think that was the last straw. I said, ‘No, we have to do this. We have to do this,’" DeLeon said.

Star of the Sea now has a Virginia Beach police officer guarding the door during weekend services.

“An off-duty police officer in uniform,” DeLeon said. "It's sad. It’s supposed to be a place of worship where everybody should feel safe, but I think we are living in different times."

Star of the Sea is the first church in its diocese to add armed security but not the first in Hampton Roads, and other area churches are working on their security.

About 40 faith-based organizations attended a training Thursday hosted by Newport News Police. The training focused on what to do during an active shooter incident, crime prevention tips and how to put together a security plan.

Star of the Sea has asked Virginia Beach police to assess the layout of the sanctuary for safety and security. In addition, church doors are now locked during services.

DeLeon said the response from congregants has been positive, and that some church members who have military experience have offered their assistance.

"People I think appreciated that. In fact, they said they’d been waiting for that,” DeLeon said. "We will continue to pray that peace will reign and eventually we will stop doing this.”

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.