The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) on June 20 announced K-9 Officer Kharmishia Phillip-Fields and her partner, Rivan, of the Sussex, Virginia, State Prison as its Officers of the Month for April 2024. This honor was bestowed upon the officer and her K-9 partner following their heroic actions in restoring order during a prison altercation and the ultimate sacrifice made by Rivan.

On April 2, three inmates affiliated with the MS-13 gang attacked another inmate inside the housing units at Sussex State Prison. Corrections Officer Phillip-Fields and her K-9, Rivan, were in the area and immediately responded. Rivan was badly wounded and sustained injuries while attempting to stop the attack and protect the inmates. Phillip-Fields was able to end the assault, and the inmate who was attacked was treated for injuries at a hospital.

Despite attempted lifesaving measures, Rivan died from his injuries at the facility. The heroic K-9 was 5 years old and had been part of the K-9 unit since 2019. Phillip-Fields sustained no serious injuries and attributed her safety to “Rivan’s courageous actions.”

“Today, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) is proud to announce K-9 Officer Kharmishia Phillip-Fields and her partner, Rivan, of the Sussex (VA) State Prison as our Officers of the Month for April 2024,” NLEOMF CEO William Alexander said. “Their actions exemplify the highest standards of valor and dedication in law enforcement, with Rivan’s legacy serving as a profound reminder of the bond between K-9 officers and their human partners.”

The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.

—www.NLEOMF.org—