RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Corrections welcomed a new honorary member to its ranks: Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a 13-year-old from Texas who is living with brain and spinal cancer.
DJ was sworn in as an honorary Correctional Officer and honorary Probation & Parole Officer during a ceremony on June 25 at the Office of the Attorney General, where the Greensville Correctional Center Honor Guard presented the colors. Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Attorney General Jason Miyares and other public safety leaders were present to recognize DJ’s resilience and his nationwide campaign supporting first responders.
Diagnosed in 2018 and given just five months to live, DJ has spent the last seven years visiting law enforcement agencies across the country, aiming to be sworn in by at least 1,000 departments and raise awareness for childhood cancer. He has now achieved that goal — and then some — being welcomed by more than 1,300 agencies, including police, deputies and federal law enforcement. DJ’s desire to join law enforcement was sparked by his family’s experience during Hurricane Harvey.
In late May, DJ’s father, Theodis Daniel, shared that DJ is now facing a new challenge — three additional tumors.
“It’s rough — there isn’t a class that can teach you how to deal with it,” Theodis said during a ceremony in Texas. Still, the family continues to take each day as it comes, with DJ remaining focused on his mission.
In addition to Virginia’s recognition, DJ’s journey has received national attention. In March, President Donald Trump named DJ an honorary Secret Service agent during a joint address to Congress. The following day, DJ visited the president in the Oval Office.
When DJ’s father shared news of DJ facing three new tumors, the White House issued a statement of support.
“We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors,” the White House posted on X. “Agent Daniel, you’re a true legend.”
We’re lifting up Agent DJ Daniel in prayer after his dad, Theodis, shared that DJ is now facing three new tumors.
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 30, 2025
DJ is one of the strongest, bravest young men—and has now been sworn into 1,351 law enforcement agencies across the country.
Agent Daniel, you're a true legend. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UH9sCOeWvE
Despite his diagnosis, DJ has remained focused on encouraging others.
“I’m going to keep on going until my gas tank runs out,” DJ told reporters during a ceremony in April. “That’s when God calls you home.”
The VADOC thanked DJ for his mission of supporting first responders and shining a spotlight on public safety professionals in Virginia and beyond.
