Sergeant Patrick Smithgall has been a dedicated member of the Arlington County Police Department since 2012, quickly distinguishing himself as a reliable and empathetic officer. From his earliest days on the force, Sgt. Smithgall demonstrated the qualities of a seasoned professional, embracing every opportunity to learn and share his knowledge. His commitment to training has seen him become an instructor in multiple disciplines, including Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), Civil Disturbance, and Control/Defensive Tactics, earning him respect from peers and superiors alike. 

In 2022, Sgt. Smithgall's was promoted to sergeant, and he immediately brought energy, optimism, and innovative ideas to every assignment. Officers under his command are eager to work with him, inspired by his hands-on servant leadership style and genuine care for their well-being. He prefers being out in the field, supporting his team, which instills confidence in his leadership. 

His work within the Community Engagement Division has strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the public, but Sgt. Smithgall goes above and beyond his professional duties to serve his community. He organizes efforts to shovel snow for in-need residents; delivers cakes to special needs students he met as a school resource officer; and in one case, he even purchased and installed car seats for a mother who couldn’t afford them. He served as a lead organizer for a campaign called Big Kids, Big Dreams, which facilitated a trip to Disney World for local students with developmental disabilities. In addition, he established a paid Cadet Program to provide hands-on training and insight to young adults aspiring to become police officers.  

"Making an impact starts by empowering those who will be your organization's future leaders.”