Suffolk, VA – March 3, 2025 – Sgt. Issoufou Boubacar, a dedicated law enforcement officer and U.S. Army Reserve Captain with over 17 years of experience, has officially announced his candidacy for Sheriff of Suffolk. Running on a platform of School Safety, Community Partnerships, and Modernizing Law Enforcement, Boubacar is committed to bringing a new era of transparency, accountability, and public safety to Suffolk.

“Ensuring the safety of our schools is a top priority. By implementing School Resource Officers and mentorship programs, we can protect our children while building positive relationships between youth and law enforcement,” said Boubacar.

A longtime member of the Norfolk Police Department, Sgt. Boubacar has been at the forefront of community policing efforts, working to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve. As a military veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy and currently holding the rank of Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve, he understands the importance of leadership, discipline, and community trust.

Three Core Priorities

School Safety & Youth Engagement

• Deploy deputies as School Resource Officers (SROs) in Suffolk schools to support the efforts of the Suffolk Police, improve security, and foster positive relationships with students.
• Launch mentorship programs such as One Decision to guide at-risk youth toward success.

Community Partnerships for a Safer Suffolk

• Strengthen collaborations with faith-based groups, nonprofits, and local businesses to create proactive public safety solutions.
• Expand victim support services by working with community organizations to assist survivors of domestic violence and crime.
• Improve emergency preparedness through better disaster response coordination and public safety education.

Modernizing Law Enforcement & Transparency

• Equip deputies with leadership training, advanced technology, and professional uniforms to enhance safety and accountability.
• Advocate for competitive salaries and benefits to recruit and retain top law enforcement professionals.
• Promote transparency and trust by establishing a Citizen Advisory Board to engage the community in Sheriff’s Office policies.

“Our deputies need the best training and tools to protect Suffolk. Investing in modernization, transparency, and fair wages will ensure we have a highly skilled, accountable, and community-oriented Sheriff’s Office,” Boubacar added.

Sgt. Boubacar’s candidacy represents a historic opportunity for change in the Suffolk Sheriff’s Office. His campaign will focus on educating voters about the critical role of the Sheriff and the urgent need for strong, community-driven leadership.

The campaign will officially kick off with a Sip & Paint for a Safer Suffolk on April 17th, Knotts Coffee Company – Bridgeport, North Suffolk. Voters, community leaders, and members of the media are invited to attend and learn more about Boubacar’s vision for Suffolk.

For more information about the campaign or to get involved, visit Boubacar4SuffolkSheriff.com or follow us on @Boubacar4SuffolkSheriff.