Support Services Division

Support Services Division provides those services other than EMS and suppression that are necessary to the community and department operations.  Support Services include the Fire Marshal Office, Public Information, Education and Relations (PIER), Training Office and Special Operations.

Deputy Chief for Support Services
Deputy Chief Troy Tilley

Deputy Chief Tilley was appointed to the position of Deputy Chief in August of 2005 following 17 years in various assignments with the department. He is responsible for all personnel and functions of the Support Services Division including the Fire Marshal's Office and Training Division. Deputy Chief Tilley holds an Associate's Degree (Fire Science) from Tidewater Community College and a Bachelor's Degree (Human Resources) from the University of Richmond.

Fire Marshal Office
The Fire Marshal Office investigates cause and origin of fires and prepares cases involving arson for prosecution.  They also are the lead authority in the City of Portsmouth for investigating environmental crimes.  Additionally, the Fire Marshals review construction plans for fire code compliance and monitor businesses and schools for code compliance on an ongoing basis.
Lead Investigator Lieutenant Marlon Evasco
	Lieutenant Evasco entered service with PFRES in 1995. In addition to multiple suppression and special operations assignments, Lieutenant Evasco has over 10 years of experience in fire investigations. He is currently responsible for all fire and environmental crimes investigations for the City of Portsmouth. Lieutenant Evasco has two Associate degrees (Engineering and Fire Science) from Tidewater Community College.
Code Compliance Officer Lieutenant Robert Martin
	Lieutenant Martin joined the department in 1992, and has served in various suppression assignments. He has several years of experience in fire code enforcement, and is responsible for the city's fire code inspection and enforcement programs.
Training Division
The Training Office provides in-service fire and EMS training to the department, maintaining the level of training necessary for effective and efficient operations.  They additionally represent the department with Southside Regional Fire Academy, a local coalition providing entry level recruit training for new employees.  The Training Office maintains all training records and certifications for PFRES employees as required by state and national authorities.
Training Officer Captain Clark Ryder
	Captain Ryder entered service with PFRES in 1989 and has served in multiple suppression and special operations assignments prior to his current position. His current responsibilities include overseeing all training activities and facilities for the department.  Captain Clark is also the Lead Safety Officer for the department.