ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - A long-time law enforcement agent is hanging up his hat.Â
Sgt. Robert Carpentieri spent nearly 27 years with the Virginia State Police. He officially retired at the beginning of March following decades in law enforcement.
Over the years he's provided information on accidents, shootings and other incidents across Southwest Virginia. Many times Carpentieri was the person media outlets went to when tragedies occurred.
For instance, Carpentieri was there in 2004 when a plane crashed in Patrick County. The aircraft was owned by Hendrick Motorsports and was on the way to a Nascar Race. 10 people died in the crash and Sgt. Carpenteri helped provide information. He said in tough situations the key is to be compassionate.
"It takes a toll on you emotionally. Even though you may not know these people, you still have compassion for them" said Bob Carpentieri, Former Virginia State Police Sergeant,
Now that he is retired, Carpentieri is not completely out of law enforcement. He and a business partner started a company that provides body armor plates, vests and other types of personal protection.