Michael Smith Phillips.
Gunfire
Detective Michael Phillips was shot and killed while conducting an undercover buy-bust narcotics operation in the Green Run Shopping Center at 3312 Holland Road in Virginia Beach.
During an arranged meet, Detective Phillips met with two suspects. While Detective Phillips spoke with one of the suspects, the second suspect approached and opened fire, striking the officer multiple times. The team of investigative officers were able to detain both suspects. Detective Phillips died on the scene from the gunshot wounds.
Both men were charged with murder. One of the subjects pleaded guilty to murder in December 2010 and was sentenced to life in prison. The second suspect was convicted of murder in October 2011 and subsequently sentenced to 68 years in prison.
Detective Phillips was a United States Air Force Desert Storm veteran who had served with the Virginia Beach Police Department for six years and previously served with the Hampton Police Department for three years.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Detective Phillips gave the Virginia Beach Police Department 9 years.
Thank you for your service to the Virginia Beach community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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