VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – The Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office (VBSO) is proud to announce that Wendy Morelli, a former inmate at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center (VBCC) and participant in its Trusty Program, has been hired to work in the VBSO's staff kitchen. This employment opportunity is a direct result of Sheriff Rocky Holcomb's "New Beginning Program," which allows eligible former inmates to be considered for employment with approved professional vendors within the VBSO's food services division.
“The New Beginning Program is about offering a genuine second chance," said Holcomb. "We believe in rehabilitation and providing pathways for inmates to reintegrate into the community as productive members of society. Wendy's journey is a testament to the program's success and her own hard work and commitment."
As a trusty during her incarceration for felony fraud and credit card forgery (Morelli was booked on Nov. 6, 2019, and was released on Dec. 13, 2023), Morelli demonstrated reliability and a strong work ethic, which made her an ideal candidate for this post-release employment opportunity. Her role in the staff kitchen will not only provide her with stable employment but also contribute to the efficient operation of the VBSO's food services.
Steve Wilke, the VBSO's Food Service Director with Summit Food Service, expressed his enthusiasm for Morelli's new role in the staff kitchen.
"We saw Wendy's dedication firsthand when she was a trusty, and we're thrilled to have her join our team," said Wilke. "This program shows that with the right support, individuals can truly transform their lives and contribute positively to our community."
Morelli was released in good standing from the VBCC in December 2023 and showed up to work on Jan. 6, after the program was established, for her 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. job. As a New Beginning candidate, she received clearance to work at the jail like any other employee. 2 T.R.U.S.T Transparency. Respect. Unity. Service. Training.
The New Beginning Program underscores the VBSO's commitment to reducing recidivism and fostering a supportive environment for former inmates seeking to rebuild their lives. By partnering with professional vendors, the VBSO aims to expand employment opportunities and equip individuals with the skills and experience necessary for long-term success.
Employment is one of the biggest hurdles for former inmates, especially felons, working to turn their lives around after they’ve served their debt to society. Programs like New Beginning help address this issue.
Morelli received her ServSafe Food Handler and Management Certification on June 20, solidifying her commitment to food services. The three-year certification teaches food safety skills that are vital for employment in the restaurant industry. Morelli received her certificate from Holcomb, who got a hug from the former inmate as a “thank you.” Morelli also got to cut the congratulatory cake (photo attached).
“I always told Mr. Wilke he’s a great person and a great boss,” said Morelli. “When he told me the Sheriff’s Office might be creating a 'New Beginning’ program, I told him I wanted to come back and work.”
Morelli, with 27 years in the food service industry, welcomed the opportunity.
“My old life is behind me. I got my second chance,” said Morelli. “I’m just so grateful.”
The New Beginning Program allows former inmates to be considered for employment with an approved professional vendor in the VBSO’s Food Services Division. A New Beginning candidate is a former VBSO inmate who has been released in good standing without further criminal activity and has received clearance to work in designated areas of the VBSO facility with supervision. Holcomb established the program in January of this year. Previously, former inmates were prohibited from working or volunteering in the VBCC.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Only candidates who were former inmates at the VBCC may apply.
- Candidates must have successfully served as an inmate trusty or participated in the inmate Workforce Program while incarcerated at the VBCC.
- Candidates must have been released from the VBCC within the last three years from the date of the employment application.
- Candidates must have been free from any illegal activity, law violations, criminal activity and charges since their day of release back into society and throughout the application process.
- Candidates with the following prior criminal history may be excluded from the program: violent offenses (including murder, manslaughter and homicide); abduction/kidnapping; rape, battery, crimes against children (abuse, pornography); crimes against any law enforcement person; illegal possession or use of a firearm or explosives; any other criminal history or offenses deemed inappropriate for the candidate to enter and work at the facility.
Media interested in this story should contact Public Information Officer Toni Guagenti at tguagenti@vbso.net or 757-385-8446.