Master Deputy Sheriff Beulah Toler was recently promoted to sergeant and was transferred from Court Security – Circuit Court to the Adult Detention Center (ADC) as a supervisor.
Prior to becoming a deputy sheriff, Sgt. Toler worked in the fields of early childhood development and special education while moving from place to place as a military family member. She enjoyed the work, and the schedule was conducive for a working mother. After moving to Ft. Belvoir, VA, she was employed at Prince William County Public Schools and a private special education school. She attended graduate school and earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from Troy University on the campus of a local military base in Northern Virginia.
“One of my classmates in the graduate program had been a deputy with our Sheriff’s Office,” said Toler. “He shared information with our class for a project about working in a correctional setting. I found the topic very interesting. I eventually applied for a position, toured the ADC, and the rest is history.”
During her 19 years with the agency, Toler has had a diverse career, including working in the ADC on both the day shift and the overnight shift, the Alternative Incarceration Branch (AIB), which included the inmate workforce, and the Circuit Court. “I've learned new things and developed many skills from each assignment. However, the AIB was a favorite because I saw people given opportunities to change their lives through the Skill Source Center and the Work Release Program.
Over the years, Toler has sat on committees and participated in various programs and community events. “One event that has been dear to me is Shop with a Sheriff. I like that our agency connects with families living in emergency shelters and makes returning to school a happy event for the participating children.”
Toler says she appreciates all the opportunities she has had throughout her career, including ongoing job training and learning from her colleagues. In her new assignment in the ADC, she looks forward to working with her fellow squad members. “For me, squad is another word for team, and I look forward to doing my part.”
Asked what advice she would share with young deputies, Toler says, “Enjoy your career, be versatile, change assignments, go for promotions early in your career (if you choose), and join committees and groups. Communicate with your peers and supervisors. Be purposeful as you plan your path ahead.”
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