Leesburg, VA (July 24, 2025) – The Leesburg Police Department announces the retirement of Lieutenant Bob Thompson, after more than 25 years of exceptional service to the Town of Leesburg. 

Lieutenant Thompson’s path to public service began long before his law enforcement career. He proudly served nine years in the United States Army across active duty, National Guard, and Reserve assignments. As a Counterintelligence Special Agent, he deployed in support of Operation Just Cause in Panama and Operation Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia. His military career was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal and two Army Commendation Medals.

After serving with the George Washington University Police Department for two years, Thompson joined the Leesburg Police Department in 1999. Throughout his tenure, he held a wide range of roles and leadership positions, including Patrol Officer, Detective specializing in crimes against children, Patrol Sergeant, and Hostage Negotiation Team Leader. Following his promotion to Lieutenant in 2017, he served in several key command positions, including Police Planner, Operational Support Services Commander, Information Services Commander, Resource Management Division Commander, and Patrol Platoon Commander.

Lieutenant Thompson's commitment to victims—particularly vulnerable children—earned him two Victim Services Awards from the Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney and an Allies in Prevention Award from Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) of Northern Virginia.

“Lieutenant Thompson has been a pillar of leadership, dedication, and compassion throughout his career,” said Chief Thea Pirnat. “His impact on this department and the community, especially through his work protecting children, is immeasurable. We are grateful for his service and wish him nothing but success in his next chapter.”

As he looks forward to a new chapter and a second career, Thompson expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Leesburg community.

“It has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside some of the most dedicated and talented professionals I’ve ever known,” said Thompson. “I’ll always take great pride in the work we’ve accomplished here.”

The Leesburg Police Department extends its sincerest appreciation to Lieutenant Thompson for his decades of selfless service and leadership.

Media Contact: 
Michele Bowman, MPIO – 571-541-7757
LPD-PIO@leesburgva.gov