RICHMOND, VA (CVILLERIGHTNOW) – A national organization dedicated to honoring law enforcement officers has recognized a Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) K9 Officer and her K9 partner as its Officers of the Month for April 2024.

Corrections Officer Kharmishia Phillip Fields and her partner, Rivan, were trying to restore order during a violent altercation at Sussex I State prison on April 2. Rivan, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois who joined the K9 Unit in 2019, protected his partner during the melee but subsequently died because of his injuries. Indictments in the case were announced Friday, June 28.

Officer Fields and Rivan have been honored for their bravery and sacrifice by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

“Both Officer Phillip Fields and Rivan were heroic that day. The loss of Rivan is tragic, and one we must not forget,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “We appreciate the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund efforts to bring attention to our heroes Officer Phillip Fields and Rivan.”

The NLEOMF Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour, and honors federal, state, and local officers who demonstrate exceptional law enforcement service and unwavering dedication to duty, according to the NLEOMF.