Arthur Townsend, sheriff of Lunenburg County Sheriff’s Office, was recently appointed to the Virginia State Crime Commission, according to an announcement from the Office of the Governor.

“The purpose of the Commission is to study, report and make recommendations on all areas of public safety and protection,” the Virginia State Crime Commission website cited. “In so doing, the Commission shall endeavor to ascertain the causes of crime and recommend ways to reduce and prevent it, explore and recommend methods of rehabilitation of convicted criminals, study compensation of persons in law enforcement and related fields and study other related matters including the apprehension, trial and punishment of criminal offenders.”

Townsend was previously appointed to the commission in 2016 under Gov. Terry McAuliffe.

Townsend, in a statement, said he was honored to receive the appointment and looks forward to continuing his service on the commission.

“I’m honored to be chosen by Governor Northam,” Townsend said, “and able to represent the governor’s office and the county.”

Commission meetings are held in Richmond’s shared conference committee room of the Pocahontas Building, 900 E. Main St. The next meeting is set to be Thursday, Oct. 11, at 10 a.m.