Hubbry Logo
Virginia State PoliceVirginia State PoliceMain
Open search
Virginia State Police
Community hub
Virginia State Police
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Virginia State Police
Virginia State Police
Virginia State Police
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Virginia Department of State Police
Patch of Virginia State Police
Patch of Virginia State Police
Badge of a Trooper
Badge of a Trooper
Flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia
Flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia
Common nameVirginia State Police
AbbreviationVSP
Agency overview
Formed1932; 94 years ago (1932)
Preceding agency
  • Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Employees2,966 (as of September 24, 2018)[1]
Jurisdictional structure
Operations jurisdictionU.S.
Virginia State Police Divisions Map
Size42,774 square miles (110,780 km2)
Population8,470,020 (July 1, 2017 estimate[2])
Legal jurisdictionState of Virginia
General nature
Operational structure
HeadquartersNorth Chesterfield, Virginia
Troopers & Special Agents2,118 (as of 2018)[3]
Civilian employees848 civilian employees (as of 2018)[3]
Agency executives
  • Colonel Jeffrey S. Katz, Superintendent
Parent agencyVirginia Secretary of Public Safety
Divisions7
Facilities
Airplanes4
Helicopters7
Website
www.vsp.virginia.gov

The Virginia State Police, officially the Virginia Department of State Police, conceived in 1919 and established in 1932, is the state police force for the U.S. state of Virginia. The agency originated out of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles as an inspector and enforcer of highway laws. It is currently one of fourteen agencies within the Cabinet Secretariat of Public Safety. On January 18, 2018, Gary T. Settle was sworn in as Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. Colonel Settle replaced retiring Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, who had served since 2003. On November 5, 2024 Lieutenant Colonel Matt Hanley was appointed Interim Superintendent by Governor Glenn Youngkin, after Colonel Settle announced his retirement, effective February 1, 2025.[4][5]

History

[edit]

In 1919, the Virginia State Police was conceived with the passing of the Automobile acts which stated that the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles and his assistants were vested with the powers of a Sheriff for the purpose of enforcing the provisions of the law. The Secretary of the Commonwealth continued to be responsible for this regulation. The burden of enforcement remained with Sheriffs and Constables in counties and police officers in the cities and towns.

In 1919, the Motor Vehicle Act was passed, creating the first title laws for Virginia motor vehicle owners.

In 1932, inspectors became empowered to enforce criminal codes, as well as motor vehicle codes. In doing so legislators created a state enforcement group with the power to arrest anywhere in Virginia. A mobile enforcement agency was now ready for duty wherever civil strife or emergency conditions might exist that would warrant police personnel to ensure peace and security. It was at this time that inspectors began to be known as "Troopers."

On November 3, 1938, an executive order from Majors Bishop and Nicholas officially adopted the title of "State Trooper." The purpose of this was to identify specific members of the Division of Motor Vehicles performing the role of inspector and motorcycle deputy.

On March 14, 1942, the General Assembly abolished the existing Division of Motor Vehicles and created two separate agencies: The Division of Motor Vehicles and the Department of State Police. The act called for a position of superintendent for the State Police and a commissioner for the Division of Motor Vehicles. Major C. W. Woodson Jr. was officially appointed as superintendent for the State Police.

Trooper Training

[edit]

Training for Troopers is divided into two phases. Academy Training consists of approximately 29 weeks with 1,536 hours of instruction covering more than 100 courses.

The second phase is six to eight weeks of field training.

Organizational structure

[edit]

The Department of State Police consists of the Superintendent's Office and four bureaus; Administrative and Support Services, Criminal Investigations, Field Operations and Strategic Governance.[6]

The Superintendent's Office oversees;

  • Public Relations Office
  • Executive Protection Division

The four bureaus are:

  • Department of State Police (commanded by the Colonel)
  • Bureaus (commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel)
  • Divisions (commanded by a Captain)
  • Areas (commanded by a First Sergeant)

Bureau of Field Operations (BFO)

[edit]
  • Aviation Division - Composed of three aviation bases:
    • Abingdon
    • Lynchburg
    • Richmond
  • Safety Division
    • Virginia Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Program (MVIP)
    • Motor Carrier Safety Unit (MCSU)
  • Special Operations Division - Established on August 1, 2022, oversees and coordinates specialized resources.
    • Tactical Teams
    • Search and Recovery Teams (SRT)
    • Operational Medical Support (OMS).
  • Field Offices (Divisions numbered 1 through 7)
    1. Richmond
    2. Culpeper
    3. Appomattox
    4. Wytheville
    5. Chesapeake
    6. Salem
    7. Fairfax

BFO Divisions are further organized into "Area offices", numbered 1 through 49.

Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)

[edit]
  • Homeland Security Division (formerly Criminal Intelligence Division), Composed of three sections:
    • Virginia Fusion Center (VFC)
    • Field Intelligence Unit
    • Joint Terrorism Task Force
  • High Tech Crimes Division, Composed of four sections:
    • High Tech Crimes Section (HTCS)
    • Northern Virginia / District of Columbia Internet Crimes Against Children (NOVA/DC ICAC) Task Force
    • Technical Support Section (TSS)
    • Computer Evidence Recovery Section (CERS)
  • Special Investigations & Programs Division, Composed of:
    • Counter-Terrorism / Criminal Interdiction (CCI)
    • Asset Forfeiture
    • Illegal Marijuana Eradication
    • Multi-Jurisdictional Task Forces
    • Polygraph Quality Control
    • Help Eliminate Auto Theft (HEAT) Program
    • Insurance Fraud Program
    • Drug Diversion
  • Field Offices (Divisions numbered 1 through 7)
    1. Richmond
    2. Culpeper
    3. Appomattox
    4. Wytheville
    5. Chesapeake
    6. Salem
    7. Fairfax

Bureau of Administrative and Support Services (BASS)

[edit]
  • Communications Division
  • Criminal Justice Information Services
  • Human Resources Division
  • Information Technology Division
  • Property and Finance Division
  • Training Division

Bureau of Strategic Governance (BSG)

[edit]
  • Chief Diversity Officer
  • Professional Standards Division
  • Records Request (FOIA)

Uniform and equipment

[edit]

Uniform

[edit]
State Troopers in 2019

The standard Trooper uniform consists of a light gray colored button-up shirt, with long sleeves in winter and short sleeves in summer. A black tie is worn with the long-sleeve shirt. Patches are sewn to each sleeve. Gray pants with a Dark Blue stripe down the sides are worn year round. Black Clarino shoes and Sam Browne belt, without cross strap, gun belt are worn with the uniform.

A black semi-gloss straw Campaign hat is worn year round. A modified winter fur cap can be worn in the colder months.

A dark blue dress blouse and standard black Clarino Sam Browne gun belt, without the cross strap, are worn for special occasions. Dark blue work jackets are utilized for colder months. Black Commando Sweaters, or "wooly pullys" with proper patches and rank can also be worn by Troopers in cold weather.

Sergeants and First Sergeants wear silver, out lined in blue, chevrons showing their rank on both sleeves. Lieutenants and above wear their rank insignia on the shirt collar.

First Sergeants and below wear silver, out lined in blue, hash marks on the left sleeve denoting years of service. Each hash mark represents five years of service.

Issued Weapons

[edit]

Beginning in late 2018, Troopers of all ranks and Special Agents are issued the SIG Sauer P320 .357 SIG pistol, while Troopers ranked First Sergeant and below are also issued the Benelli Supernova 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun and the Colt M4 Carbine patrol rifle. Less-than-lethal weapons carried by troopers include OC spray and the ASP baton.

Previous Issued Weapons

[edit]
SIG Sauer P228

Issued Vehicles

[edit]

The department has used many different makes and models since its inception.

Patrol Cars

[edit]

Prior to 1928, inspectors only used automobiles once they had seized a vehicle used to transport illegal whiskey and it had been released to the Division for enforcement purposes by the courts. Fords became the first issued patrol vehicles in 1928. In 1932, white Chevrolet roadsters and white motorcycles were purchased and became known as the "Great White Fleet". Fords and Chevys were the main staple of the patrol force in the 1930s and early 1940s. In 1945 post-war acquisitions of police vehicles were rare and troopers made arrangements to purchase vehicles wherever they could. Buicks and Pontiacs supplemented the fleet until auto manufacturers resumed normal production.

In 1948, the Department adopted the distinctive blue and gray paint scheme for all vehicles. Later in 1952, reflective markings were adopted and used for all marked vehicles. Those same markings are still in use today.

During the 1940s, 50's, 60's, 70's, and 80's the Department purchased Fords, Chevy's, Chryslers, and Plymouths for use as patrol cars. Ford's and Chevy's were used mainly used in the 90's and 2000's. Dodge Chargers were introduced into the fleet in 2006.

Red emergency lights were in use until 1985 and then were replaced with blue emergency lights. Bar lights were phased onto vehicles in 1988 replacing the single "bubble gum" light. "TROOPER" decals were added to the front fenders of patrol cars in 1995. In 1999, the Department adopted Ford's silver, replacing the traditional paint scheme's gray. Only the hood, roof and trunk were painted blue. This was due to budget constraints and that Ford stopped using that particular gray paint. "Slicktop" Chevrolet Impalas were put into use beginning in 2001. Seven "slicktop" 2002 Chevrolet 9C1 Camaros were put into service in high traffic areas in 2002.

In 2006, the Department purchased 30+ Hemi V8 Dodge Chargers and for the first time since 1948 adopted new graphics for the marked and slicktop Chargers.

In 2008, the Virginia State Police's Dodge Charger was Law and Order Magazine's Police Vehicle Design Winner for State and Federal Agencies.

In 2013, the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan was added to the fleet of Virginia State Police vehicles since the Ford Crown Victoria model ceased production. In 2019, the Virginia State Police bought every available new Police Interceptor sedan, giving the state a steady supply of new Interceptor sedans for up to 5 years beyond the model's discontinuation depending on vehicle attrition due to accidents or other damage.

In 2019, the department added Ford Police Interceptor Utility SUV for specialty units (K-9, TacTeam and Motor Carrier units).

Starting in 2020, the department took delivery of their new patrol vehicles, the 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utility. Dressed in all silver and adopting newer styled graphics, first used on the 2006 Dodge Chargers. Ending a long tradition of their blue and gray paint scheme, in use since 1948 and traditional graphics, in use since 1952. These new patrol vehicles ended another long tradition; the adoption of red emergency lights in combination with blue and the use of internal light bars instead of roof mounted lights.[7]

As of 2021, the Virginia State Police fleet consists primarily of 2013–2019 Ford Police Interceptor Sedans and 2020 and 2021 Ford Police Interceptor Utilities. These vehicles are supplemented by 2013–2022 Chevrolet Tahoe PPVs primarily used for specialty units and 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty XLs as utility vehicles; as well as the remaining Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors and unmarked Chevrolet Impala PPVs.

Two Virginia State Troopers in Fairfax County, Virginia with a Chevrolet Impala PPV (left) and Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (right)

Aviation Division

[edit]
  • 5 Bell 407 Helicopters
  • 1 Bell 412EPI Helicopter
  • 2 Airbus EC-145 Helicopters
  • 3 Cessna 206 Turbo Stationair Airplanes

Rank structure

[edit]

Bureau of Field Operations (BFO)[8]

Rank Insignia Description
Superintendent/Colonel[8]
Superintendent of State Police
Deputy Superintendent/Lieutenant Colonel[8]
Deputy Superintendent (1) / Bureau Director (1 per bureau) / Office of Performance Management and Internal Controls (1)
Major[8]
Bureau Deputy Director (2 per bureau)
Captain[8]
Division Commander
Lieutenant[8]
Field / Headquarters Lieutenant / Staff Assistant
First Sergeant[8]
Area Commander
Sergeant[8]
First-line supervisor
Master Trooper[8]
Career Progression, based on length of service, 25+ years[8]
Senior Trooper[8]
Career Progression, based on length of service, 9+ years[8]
Trooper-Pilot[8]
Trooper's assigned to the Aviation Unit[8]
Trooper II[8]
Career Progression, automatic after 1 year probationary period[8]
Trooper I[8]
Probationary Trooper, first year in the field[8]
Trainee[8]
Status while attending the state police academy[8]

Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)[8]

  • Lieutenant Colonel (Bureau Director)[8]
  • Major (Bureau Deputy Director)[8]
  • Captain (Division Commander)[8]
  • Lieutenant (Special Agent in Charge / Section Commander / Staff Assistant)[8]
  • First Sergeant (Assistant Special Agent in Charge / Unit Commander / First-line supervisor)[8]
  • Senior Special Agent, career progression[8]
  • Special Agent[8]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Virginia State Police

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Virginia State Police (VSP) is the principal state law enforcement agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia, tasked with delivering high-quality statewide policing services to residents and visitors, including highway patrol, criminal investigations, executive protection, counter-terrorism operations, and support for local and federal agencies. Established on July 1, 1932, by act of the Virginia General Assembly, which empowered motor vehicle inspectors to enforce criminal codes and redesignated them as troopers, the VSP evolved from an initial force of eight inspectors in 1922 into a separate department in 1942 with 220 personnel. Headquartered in North Chesterfield under Superintendent Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, the agency upholds a mission of securing the Commonwealth via leadership, collaboration, and community engagement, guided by core values such as competence, innovation, trust, and commitment. Defining achievements include achieving CALEA accreditation in 1985 as only the second state agency nationally, pioneering milestones like the first female and African American female troopers in 1976, and major enforcement successes such as the 1991 seizure of 660 pounds of cocaine valued at $7.5 million. While primarily focused on empirical law enforcement imperatives like traffic safety and violent crime reduction, the VSP has maintained operational integrity amid routine challenges inherent to policing, without systemic scandals altering its foundational structure or mandate.

Origins and Historical Development

Establishment and Early Formation

The Virginia State Police traces its origins to efforts to regulate the burgeoning automobile industry in the early . In 1919, the passed the Automobile Acts, mandating vehicle registration and licensing amid rising motor vehicle usage, which necessitated enforcement mechanisms. By 1922, recognizing enforcement needs, the Assembly authorized the hiring of eight inspectors tasked specifically with upholding these laws, each compensated between $1,500 and $1,800 annually. These initial personnel operated under the Division of Motor Vehicles, focusing on compliance with licensing and safety standards rather than general . In 1923, these inspectors were formally integrated into the newly established Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), expanding their administrative oversight of highway-related regulations. By 1928, the Division was authorized to hire 20 additional inspectors to meet growing demands, drawing from hundreds of applications and marking an early expansion in personnel. T.K. Sexton was appointed as the first Superintendent of the DMV Enforcement Division in 1930, providing centralized leadership to the group. That same year, the inspectors adopted a distinctive blue and gray uniform, which remains in use today, symbolizing continuity in the agency's identity. A pivotal shift occurred on July 1, 1932, when the General Assembly amended legislation to empower these DMV inspectors with authority to enforce broader criminal codes beyond motor vehicle laws, renaming them "state troopers" and laying the foundation for a statewide police force. This expansion was accompanied by the agency's first formalized training: a five-week academy held at a National Guard camp in Princess Anne County, emphasizing skills in arrest procedures and general policing. Early operations tested these new powers, as in 1933 when troopers were deployed to maintain order during violent coal strikes in Wise, Lee, and Russell counties involving approximately 10,000 miners, demonstrating the agency's emerging role in public safety beyond highways. Formal institutionalization followed in 1939, with the creation of the Virginia State Police Superintendent position, filled by Major H.B. Nicholas, and relocation of headquarters to a Route 60 farmhouse, solidifying the transition from inspectors to a dedicated state police entity.

Expansion Through the 20th Century

The origins of the State Police trace to , when the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles established a force of eight inspectors tasked with enforcing automobile registration and licensing laws enacted in 1919. These early officers operated primarily as a , focusing on safety and compliance amid the rapid growth of automobile use in the state. In 1932, the expanded the inspectors' authority to include enforcement of the state's criminal code, redesignating them as "Troopers" and inaugurating the first five-week training academy to professionalize operations. This legislative change marked a pivotal shift from limited traffic duties to broader responsibilities. By 1939, the agency formalized as the Virginia State Police, with Major H.B. Nicholas appointed as the first Superintendent and headquarters relocated to a 65-acre facility along Route 60 in North Chesterfield. World War II catalyzed significant expansion, as House Bill 292 in 1942 established the Virginia State Police as an independent agency with an initial complement of 220 troopers, 16 dispatchers, and 29 license examiners. To address wartime demands, the Women's Auxiliary State Police was formed that year, comprising 26 women who supported administrative and auxiliary roles. A dedicated bureau for investigating major crimes and stolen vehicles was created in 1938, laying groundwork for specialized criminal probes. Postwar developments in the emphasized operational modernization, including the issuance of the first units for speed enforcement in 1952, reduction of shifts to eight hours that same year, and a five-day workweek by 1959; motorcycles were temporarily phased out in 1954 before reinstatement in 1966. The saw territorial growth with the addition of a sixth division in Salem in 1961 and the launch of a canine program, enhancing capabilities in search and apprehension; the first African American trooper, Reginald L. Boyd, joined in 1969. The 1970s introduced the Investigation Division and Criminal Intelligence Unit in 1973, expanding investigative reach, while the first female trooper, Cheryl L. Nottingham, graduated in 1976, promoting diversification. Further growth in the 1980s included a seventh division in in 1980 to cover burgeoning suburban areas, formation of the Aviation Unit and Safety Division in 1982 for aerial support and accident analysis, and accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies in 1985. By the 1990s, infrastructure investments like a 37,330-square-foot addition to the training academy in 1990 supported increased recruitment, alongside technological upgrades such as in-car video systems in , which improved evidence collection and accountability. That year also saw the agency's largest cocaine seizure, 660 pounds valued at $7.5 million, underscoring enhanced drug interdiction efforts amid rising interstate trafficking. These cumulative changes reflected the agency's adaptation to , highway expansion, and evolving criminal threats across .

Modern Era and Key Milestones Post-2000

In June 2000, W. Gerald Massengill was appointed Superintendent following a nationwide search, marking a leadership transition amid expanding departmental responsibilities. That year, the authorized the Virginia State Police (VSP) to deploy aerial speed enforcement on state highways to enhance traffic safety, and the department dedicated its new Administrative Headquarters in North Chesterfield while implementing department-wide email addresses for all personnel. Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, VSP troopers from Area 45 assisted in rescue efforts at , reflecting an early shift toward heightened roles. In 2002, the department contributed to the investigation of the Beltway sniper attacks, aiding in the resolution of high-profile cases alongside federal agencies. By 2003, Captain Eugene A. Stockton became the first African American to achieve the rank of , and the Virginia AMBER Alert system was established to facilitate rapid responses to child abductions, coinciding with the passage of the "Move Over" law requiring drivers to yield to emergency vehicles. The mid-2000s saw further operational expansions, including the 2005 deployment of troopers to Mississippi for Hurricane Katrina recovery and the dedication of a $15 million addition to the State Police Headquarters housing the Virginia Fusion Center, a joint initiative with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management focused on threat intelligence sharing. On April 16, 2007, VSP led the investigation into the Virginia Tech mass shooting, deploying over 400 personnel to process evidence and support local authorities in the aftermath of the attack that claimed 32 lives. Later that year, troopers provided security for Queen Elizabeth II's visit commemorating Jamestown's 400th anniversary. Technological advancements continued with the 2008 acquisition of the department's first license plate readers to bolster vehicle identification in investigations. In 2010, VSP launched its official page to improve public communication and introduced a two-member motors unit in the Appomattox Division for specialized patrol. Leadership shifted again in 2017 when W. Steven Flaherty retired, paving the way for Gary T. Settle to assume the superintendency in 2018 after serving as . That August, VSP responded to the in Charlottesville, during which a department helicopter crashed, killing Lieutenant H. Jay Cullen and Trooper-Pilot Berke M. M. Bates while monitoring the event. The 2018 inaugural Accelerated Lateral Entry Program graduated 39 experienced officers, streamlining recruitment of qualified laterals. Subsequent years featured responses to mass casualty incidents, including the 2019 Virginia Beach municipal building shooting, and the adoption of electronic summons issuance in select Fairfax Division vehicles for efficiency. In , VSP managed for a large gun rights rally in Richmond amid civil unrest and coordinated enforcement, while establishing positions for a officer and wellness coordinator. The department assisted federal efforts at the U.S. Capitol on , 2021, deploying its Fairfax Division Tactical . By 2023, Operation Bold Blue Line yielded over 1,000 arrests and significant narcotics seizures, alongside the creation of dedicated Human Trafficking and Gaming Enforcement Units to target emerging criminal threats. Colonel Settle retired effective February 1, 2025, succeeded by Colonel , who had joined VSP in 1993.

Core Responsibilities and Duties

The Virginia State Police (VSP) possesses statewide jurisdiction under § 52-1 of the Code of to enforce state s, preserve public order, and safeguard citizens and property across the , operating under the direction of the and Superintendent. This authority extends to patrol, , and traffic enforcement on highways, interstates, and public areas as outlined in § 52-6, enabling intervention where local resources are insufficient or statewide coordination is required. A primary duty involves through the Bureau of Field Operations, which maintains visibility and enforcement on over 74,000 miles of state-maintained roadways and interstate highways to reduce accidents, enforce traffic regulations, and interdict criminal activity such as drug trafficking. Troopers conduct routine patrols, respond to crashes, issue citations for violations like speeding and impaired driving, and provide motorist assistance, contributing to goals of orderly and public safety. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation handles major felony probes, including homicides, sexual assaults, and , as mandated by , often assisting local agencies with forensic analysis, evidence collection, and multi-jurisdictional cases. Duties here emphasize thorough examinations of violent crimes, explosives incidents, and specialized units for gaming and vice operations, prioritizing evidence-based resolutions over volume. Beyond core policing, VSP fulfills statutory roles in executive protection for the and dignitaries via the Executive Protective Unit, counter-terrorism through threat assessments and tactical responses, and administrative services like statewide vehicle safety inspections at over 1,000 stations and criminal background checks processed annually for employers and licensing boards. These functions support broader by integrating , such as radio communications and , to enhance response efficacy across divisions. The Virginia State Police operates under the authority of Title 52 of the Code of , specifically Chapter 1, which establishes the Department of State Police and delineates its structure, powers, and duties. The Superintendent, appointed by the with the of the General Assembly, holds primary responsibility for directing the department's enforcement of state criminal laws, traffic regulations, and public safety measures across the . State troopers possess full powers of arrest and investigation throughout , with alongside local agencies, though their mandate emphasizes statewide mobility, particularly on highways and interstates under § 46.2-102, which empowers uniformed officers to enforce laws without territorial limits. This framework prioritizes uniform application of state law, including aircraft accident investigations and general criminal enforcement as outlined in § 52-1. Interstate cooperation is facilitated through statutory provisions enabling liaison with agencies beyond Virginia's borders. Under § 52-26, the Superintendent is explicitly authorized to collaborate with law-enforcement entities in other states, as well as federal counterparts, to address cross-jurisdictional matters such as fugitive apprehension and traffic safety. Practical examples include VSP's participation in the annual "I-95 Drive to Save Lives" initiative, a multi-state traffic enforcement effort spanning 15 East Coast states from Maine to Florida, aimed at reducing fatalities through coordinated patrols and awareness campaigns along Interstate 95. Such arrangements extend to reciprocal agreements on fresh pursuit, rooted in Virginia's 1936 legislation allowing cross-border chases with consenting states, ensuring seamless response to crimes spanning state lines without formal extradition delays in exigent circumstances. These mechanisms underscore VSP's role in regional security without supplanting local or federal primacy, grounded in mutual aid principles rather than unilateral expansion.

Organizational Structure

Bureau of Field Operations

The Bureau of Field Operations constitutes the primary uniformed patrol arm of the Virginia State Police, tasked with enforcing and criminal laws across the . Its core responsibilities include patrolling more than 74,000 miles of state-maintained roadways and interstate highways, investigating traffic crashes, and responding to incidents requiring immediate intervention. These operations emphasize traffic safety, criminal apprehension, and public assistance, with troopers deployed to address workload demands in urban and rural areas alike. Organizationally, the bureau operates through seven geographic field divisions, each commanded by a captain and encompassing multiple area offices—totaling 49 such offices—led by first sergeants. This decentralized structure facilitates localized enforcement while maintaining statewide coordination, supported by seven emergency dispatch centers that handle communications for field units. The bureau directs approximately 1,700 sworn troopers and civilian support staff, enabling comprehensive coverage of Virginia's . Specialized divisions augment the bureau's capabilities. The Aviation Division provides aerial surveillance, search and rescue, and rapid transport using helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The Safety Division oversees the Motor Carrier Safety Unit, which conducts compliance inspections of commercial vehicles, and the statewide Vehicle Inspection Program to ensure roadworthiness. Complementing these, the Special Operations Division manages tactical teams for high-risk incidents, executive protection details, counter-terrorism efforts, and operational medical support. Together, these elements enable the bureau to integrate routine patrol with advanced operational responses.

Bureau of Criminal Investigation

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) within the Virginia State Police conducts thorough and comprehensive investigations of criminal matters as mandated by state statutes and departmental policies. It prioritizes cases referred by the , Class 1, 2, or 3 investigations requested by the , commonwealth's attorneys, chiefs of police, sheriffs, or grand juries, and probes into elected officials when directed by the , , or grand juries. Led by Caren M. Sterling as bureau director, the BCI operates through specialized divisions and maintains seven field offices across Virginia's divisions to deliver technical, forensic, and investigative support to local, state, and federal partners. The General Investigation Section handles complex cases including homicides, officer-involved shootings, , bomb threats and post-blast scenes, financial crimes such as , , and public , as well as violent offenses like and child exploitation. Special agents in this section assist local agencies with major crime scenes, hostage situations, fire investigations, and forensic analysis, supported by dedicated units such as the FBI-certified and the Financial Crimes Unit staffed by agents certified as CPAs or Certified Fraud Examiners (CFEs). The Drug Enforcement Section assigns sworn personnel in each of Virginia's seven divisions exclusively to enforce drug laws, targeting trafficking, distribution, and related organized crime. Complementing this, the Special Investigations & Programs Division, established in 2018, addresses multifaceted threats through units like the Interstate Criminal Enforcement team, which interdicts drugs, gangs, and terrorism via surveillance at ports, airports, and highways; the Mass Transit Unit for narcotics interdiction at transit hubs; Drug Diversion for managing the Prescription Monitoring Program and providing analytics training; Asset Forfeiture for seizing proceeds under Virginia Code § 19.2 Chapter 22.1; Counter-Terrorism and HAZMAT Response for hazardous incidents; and Illegal Marijuana Eradication operations in coordination with the DEA. The Homeland Security Division promotes to counter crime, gangs, and terrorism while protecting civil rights, comprising the Fusion Center as a hub for all-crimes sharing with multi-sector partners; the Field Intelligence Unit for tactical support and strategic planning; and the FBI-led for crisis response and national coordination. Additional specialized units include the High Tech Crimes Division, formed in 2009 to probe computer-facilitated offenses and aid agencies with , and the Gaming Enforcement Unit, which coordinates statewide enforcement of gaming laws, operates a public tip line for illegal operations, and liaises with regulators and locals on violations including online and social media-based activities.

Bureau of Administrative and Support Services

The Bureau of Administrative and Support Services (BASS) of the Virginia State Police oversees a wide array of non-operational functions essential to the agency's operations, employing the majority of the department's civilian personnel alongside select sworn officers. It delivers critical support through specialized expertise in areas such as , , , and facilities management, enabling the broader mission of across the . BASS also serves as the agency's primary liaison to the , advocating for legislative priorities and ensuring alignment with state policy needs. Key divisions within BASS handle recruitment and training, with the Training Division administering the —a rigorous 28-week program designed to equip new troopers with the physical, tactical, and procedural skills required for and public safety duties. The Division focuses on recruiting a diverse pool of candidates, processing applications, and managing volunteer programs to support departmental initiatives. Meanwhile, the Property and Finance Division prepares the annual budget, oversees procurement of supplies and equipment, and maintains warehousing operations to sustain logistical efficiency. Information technology and communications fall under dedicated units, where the Information Technology Division procures hardware and software, develops secure network solutions, and sustains systems like the platform critical for real-time coordination during emergencies. The Communications Division installs, maintains, and services land mobile radios, microwave systems, wireline, and wireless telephone infrastructure to ensure reliable connectivity for field operations. Facilities management addresses upkeep of departmental buildings and grounds, while the Biometric and Information Services unit safeguards sensitive data, including compliance enforcement for sex offender registries and firearms statutes. Leadership of BASS is provided by Eric W. Gowin, who directs these integrated services from the administrative headquarters at 7700 Midlothian Turnpike in North Chesterfield, . The bureau's technical services unit further supports operational readiness by equipping patrol vehicles with radios, units, and related electronics, minimizing downtime and enhancing enforcement capabilities on 's roadways.

Bureau of Strategic Governance and Technology

The Bureau of Strategic Governance (BSG) oversees the tracking, monitoring, securing, and guiding of the Virginia State Police's progress toward achieving and sustaining its strategic objectives, utilizing data-driven tools and processes to align departmental efforts with broader goals. This includes maintaining the agency's Continuity of Operations plan and managing state and federal grants to support operational resilience and resource allocation. The bureau, directed by Norman E. Gray, Sr., following his promotion in an executive staff restructure, integrates functions with elements of technology oversight, particularly through measures that protect . Central to BSG's operations is the Strategic Planning and Research Division (SPRD), which develops and maintains the agency's comprehensive strategic plan while objectively assessing performance against departmental goals. The division promotes strategic thinking, facilitates continuous improvement initiatives, and conducts research into innovative solutions for operational challenges, commanded by Captain Keeli L. Hill. It also administers the Staff & Employee Development (SLED) Program, a formal mentoring effort for sworn personnel initiated in September 2021, featuring a one-week orientation, six months of fieldwork across 10 divisions with assigned mentors, and a capstone session to enhance skills, decision-making, and critical thinking. The Office within BSG focuses on technology governance by ensuring the , , and of IT systems and data across the department. It applies established frameworks and best practices to manage risks, safeguard electronic and paper-based infrastructure with replicable measures, and protect data privacy as a shared responsibility aligned with VSP's strategic priorities. Cybersecurity incidents are reported in compliance with Virginia Code § 2.2-5514, effective July 1, 2022, emphasizing proactive defense of mission-critical applications. Additional units under BSG bolster governance and accountability, including the Professional Standards Division, which promotes excellence and ethical standards; the Internal Audit Section, tasked with mitigating operational risks; the Office of Legal Affairs, providing guidance and training on legal matters; the FOIA Officer for handling requests; the Chief Diversity Officer for fostering inclusivity; and the Legislative Liaison for coordination with the state administration and . These components collectively ensure strategic alignment, , and adaptive governance in support of objectives.

Recruitment, Training, and Professional Development

Recruitment Standards and Process

Applicants to become Virginia State Troopers must meet stringent eligibility requirements set by the Virginia State Police, including citizenship, a or equivalent GED, attainment of 21 years of age by academy graduation, possession of a valid from their state of residence, and vision correctable to 20/20. Additional standards mandate passing a , satisfying employment eligibility under the and Control Act of 1986, and demonstrating good character via a comprehensive that incorporates a examination. Convictions for within the past five years or multiple lifetime DUI offenses disqualify candidates, as do patterns of illegal drug use or other criminal history revealed in investigations. The selection process commences with submission of an online application via the official Virginia State Police recruitment portal at vatrooper.com, where candidates provide personal, educational, and employment history. Upon review, qualified applicants advance to Phase I: the Work Performance Test, evaluating cognitive skills through a written examination and initial physical readiness. Phase II encompasses a polygraph examination to verify truthfulness regarding background disclosures, followed by an in-depth investigation covering criminal records, financial history, references, and prior employment. Subsequent evaluations include oral interviews assessing suitability for law enforcement duties, medical examinations to confirm physical fitness for high-risk operations, and psychological assessments to evaluate mental resilience and decision-making under stress. Successful candidates receive a conditional offer contingent on academy performance, with the entire process typically spanning several months to ensure only highly qualified individuals proceed to the 28-week Basic Trooper Training Program. To address recruitment challenges and attract younger talent, the Virginia State Police introduced the "Pathway to Trooper" program in 2024, targeting 18- to 20-year-olds ineligible for direct trooper applications due to age. Participants undergo the full pre-employment screening as trooper applicants but begin as emergency dispatchers at one of seven communications centers, earning a $5,000 hiring bonus, full benefits, and a reserved academy slot upon turning 21, after which they receive a 10% salary increase and $5,000 retention bonus post-training. This initiative integrates early organizational exposure while upholding core standards, reflecting efforts to bolster applicant pools amid national shortages.

Basic Trooper Training Program

The Virginia State Police Basic Trooper Training Program, also known as , is a rigorous 28-week regimen designed to transform recruits into fully prepared troopers capable of handling the physical, mental, and operational demands of state . Conducted at the Virginia State Police Academy in North Chesterfield, , the program emphasizes a blend of classroom-based academic instruction and hands-on practical training to instill knowledge of procedures, state laws, and professional policing standards. Recruits, selected through a competitive process including assessments such as a 150-yard competence course, undergo this training to ensure they can perform duties safely and effectively upon graduation. Core curriculum components include advanced driving skills for high-speed and operations, comprehensive to build endurance and strength, and in-depth study of state laws governing traffic enforcement, criminal offenses, and public safety. Firearms proficiency covers marksmanship, tactical reloading, and scenario-based shooting under stress, while defensive tactics modules teach , use-of-force decision-making, and suspect apprehension techniques. introduces evidence collection, interview methods, report writing, and basic forensic principles, fostering analytical skills essential for field operations. The program also integrates soft skills development, such as , , , , and , through structured exercises and simulations that replicate real-world policing scenarios. Trainees must maintain high standards of discipline, with failure in any phase potentially leading to dismissal; successful completion results in certification by the Virginia Department of Services and assignment to field duties. For pre-certified officers from other agencies, an abbreviated 8-week accelerated session is available, but the standard remains the primary pathway for entry-level troopers.

Advanced and Specialized Training

The Virginia State Police Training Division administers advanced and specialized training programs to maintain and elevate trooper proficiency following initial basic schooling. In-service training mandates at least 40 hours per year for all personnel, encompassing legal updates, awareness, techniques, use-of-force policies, /CPR, defensive tactics, officer safety protocols, , and firearms requalification. Career development initiatives focus on skill enhancement in areas such as Advanced Crash Investigation, which equips troopers with in-depth accident reconstruction methods; the Forensic Trooper Program, providing hands-on forensic evidence collection and analysis; Special Agent Basic training for investigative roles; and the Staff and Leadership Employee Development (SLED) program, which fosters supervisory and managerial competencies through structured leadership modules. Specialized driver training occurs at dedicated facilities, including precision driving, urban maneuvers, high-speed pursuit tactics, Pursuit Intervention Technique, motorcycle operations, and speed measurement radar calibration, all aimed at improving vehicular control and enforcement safety. Tactical operations training, delivered via the Tactical Operations Unit, includes Officer Survival courses, Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) for active threat response, and field force tactics for and high-risk warrant service. The canine program features a 13-week (520-hour) initial handler school for explosives, , patrol, or certification, followed by monthly in-service maintenance to sustain detection and apprehension efficacy. The Impaired Driver Training Unit advances DUI enforcement expertise through the 16-hour Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) course, which builds on standardized field sobriety testing (SFST) to detect drug and alcohol impairment via enhanced observation and biological sampling; the multi-week Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) certification, involving a 12-step protocol for toxicological evaluation with biennial recertification; and the SFST Instructor Development Course for propagating standardized instruction statewide. Within the Special Operations Division, tactical team members undergo rigorous preparation for crisis intervention, including over 1,060 responses in 2024 such as search warrants and barricade resolutions, while search and recovery teams receive instruction in underwater criminal investigations, swiftwater rescue, land search operations, rope rescue, and advanced medical support. Operational Medical Support personnel train to paramedic levels as an Advanced Life Support Agency certified by the Virginia Department of Health. In the Bureau of Criminal Investigation's General Investigation Section, special agents pursue role-specific advancements, including practical hostage negotiation exercises emphasizing non-violent resolution of barricades and crises; FBI Hazardous Devices School certification for technicians; comprehensive fire and explosion investigation protocols; financial forensics requiring degrees, audit experience, and credentials like (CPA) or (); advanced interview techniques for probes; and Forensic Science Academy graduation plus supplemental modules in , , and for forensic technicians. These programs ensure operational readiness across diverse threats, with ongoing adaptations to emerging challenges like counter-terrorism and hazardous materials response.

Uniforms, Equipment, and Operational Assets

Standard Uniform and Insignia

The standard uniform of Virginia State Police troopers incorporates a and gray color scheme, established in and retained as the primary design to the present day. This includes gray shirts or blouses paired with trousers, reflecting a traditional aesthetic emphasizing visibility and authority on highways and in field operations. A distinctive element is the uniform shoulder patch, worn on the sleeves of all shirts, blouses, and winter jackets. The patch features the obverse of the Great Seal of , encircled by a border and the department's name, designed by a department member in 1949 and officially adopted in 1950. Troopers don a year-round , introduced in 2001 to replace the seasonal , providing practical headgear for diverse weather conditions encountered in duties. The badge, typically a shield-shaped emblem topped with an eagle, is affixed to the chest for identification, symbolizing the trooper's authority under . Uniform regulations mandate neat grooming, with male troopers required to keep hair trimmed and not extending below the collar, while female troopers must secure hair above the collar line, ensuring a appearance consistent with departmental standards. Variations exist for seasonal use, such as long-sleeve winter shirts and short-sleeve summer options, alongside jackets for colder months, all maintaining the core motif.

Firearms, Non-Lethal Weapons, and Personal Gear

Virginia State Police troopers are issued the as their standard-issue sidearm, adopted in 2018 for its modular design, which allows customization to individual needs, along with enhanced accuracy, reliability, and safety features compared to prior models such as the SIG P229. The is chambered in 9mm and typically carried with multiple magazines for operational readiness. For shoulder-fired long guns, the department utilizes the pump-action shotgun as its primary shotgun, selected around 2018 to replace the Police Magnum, with troopers undergoing proficiency training on the 12-gauge platform. Specific details on , such as AR-15 variants, are not publicly detailed in available departmental announcements, though many agencies equip specialized units with selective-fire or semi-automatic for high-risk scenarios. Non-lethal weapons employed by troopers include conducted energy devices, chemical munitions like (OC) spray, and impact tools such as expandable batons, aligned with Virginia's broader use-of-force guidelines that prioritize before escalating to kinetic options. These tools support continuum-of-force doctrines, where less-lethal options are deployed when is not justified, as outlined in state prohibiting unnecessary kinetic impacts during civil unrest. Personal gear for troopers encompasses a duty belt with holster, spare magazine carriers, handcuffs, radio, and , supplemented by approved for operational use, such as soft armor panels rated for threats. All equipment must be maintained in serviceable condition per departmental standards, ensuring readiness during patrols and responses. Troopers receive on gear integration during basic sessions to optimize mobility and effectiveness.

Vehicles, Aircraft, and Fleet Management

The Virginia State Police (VSP) maintains a diverse fleet of marked and unmarked vehicles primarily consisting of pursuit-rated sedans and specialty models designed for high-speed and . In 2025, the agency introduced nine GT pursuit vehicles (S650 generation) to enhance capabilities, improve fuel efficiency, and support recruitment efforts by appealing to performance-oriented applicants; these vehicles debuted publicly at in March 2025 and are deployed statewide. VSP's division annually custom-builds and equips hundreds of vehicles, including 342 for internal use in 2021 and 323 in 2022, while processing additional units for maintenance and outfitting to meet operational demands across Virginia's divisions. Motorcycles were reinstated to the fleet by 1966 for targeted duties. The VSP Aviation Division operates a fleet of helicopters and for aerial surveillance, , medical evacuations, and support to ground operations, enabling rapid response across the state's 42,000 square miles. As of recent records, the inventory includes five helicopters, one Bell 412EPI helicopter, one EC-145 helicopter, and three Turbo Stationair airplanes, all maintained by full-time mechanics exceeding standards. In July 2025, training commenced on a new 100 Special Mission Aircraft equipped with a 750-horsepower PT6 turbine engine, capable of reaching any point in within 45 minutes to bolster medevac and law enforcement missions. Fleet management falls under VSP's Vehicle Fleet Management operations, encompassing the Installation Facility and Fleet Services Garage, which handle , customization, maintenance, and equipping of all agency vehicles and , extending support to other state entities for specialized needs. This centralized approach ensures operational readiness, with annual processing of over 600 vehicles documented in recent years, prioritizing durability for and investigative pursuits while adhering to state guidelines under the Department of General Services for non-specialized assets.

Command Structure and Leadership

Rank Hierarchy and Insignia

The Virginia State Police operates under a rank structure comprising commissioned officers and non-commissioned troopers, with the Superintendent holding the highest rank of , appointed by the . As of 2023, Matthew D. Hanley serves in this role, overseeing the agency's executive leadership. Lieutenant Colonels direct the agency's four bureaus—Field Operations, , Administrative and Support Services, and Strategic Governance—and include roles such as Deputy Superintendent. Majors function as deputy bureau directors or deputy directors within bureaus. Captains manage divisions and specialized units, such as field offices or special investigations, while Lieutenants supervise operational teams or serve in staff roles like legal affairs. Non-commissioned ranks begin with First Sergeants and Sergeants, who provide area command and first-line supervision of troopers, respectively. Trooper ranks progress by experience: Master Trooper (typically after 25+ years), Senior Trooper, and entry-level , reflecting career milestones without supervisory . Insignia for commissioned officers are worn on epaulets or collars in a style akin to U.S. equivalents, with the Colonel's featuring a silver eagle and lower ranks using bars, oak leaves, or combinations thereof. Non-commissioned troopers display rank via sleeve chevrons: with three inverted chevrons under the agency patch, and First Sergeants distinguished by additional elements such as a rocker or overlay. These are integrated into the standard uniform for identification during operations.
Rank CategoryRanks (Highest to Lowest)Primary Role
Commissioned Officers, , Major, Captain, LieutenantExecutive leadership, bureau direction, division management, unit supervision
Non-Commissioned, , Master Trooper, Senior Trooper, Supervision, experienced patrol, entry-level enforcement

Superintendent and Executive Leadership

The Superintendent of the Virginia State Police (VSP), holding the rank of , serves as the responsible for directing all departmental operations, policy implementation, and resource allocation across the agency's bureaus and divisions. The position is appointed by the for a term aligned with the gubernatorial administration, subject to confirmation, and oversees approximately 2,100 sworn officers and civilians engaged in statewide law enforcement, investigations, and public safety services. Colonel Matthew D. Hanley has served as Superintendent since his formal appointment on February 26, 2025, by Governor , following an interim role beginning November 5, 2024, after the retirement of predecessor Gary T. Settle. Hanley joined the VSP in 1993 and holds a from and a from the ; his leadership emphasizes operational efficiency and strategic enhancements to agency capabilities. The executive leadership team supports the Superintendent through key deputy and director roles, with a notable restructure announced on April 15, 2025, to bolster governance, investigations, and field operations amid evolving public safety demands. Keenon C. Hook was promoted to Deputy Superintendent effective April 25, 2025, managing day-to-day operations; Hook, a former patrol trooper, , and prosecuting attorney, holds a B.A. from and a J.D. from the . Kirk S. Marlowe serves as Chief Transformation Officer, focusing on strategic initiatives after prior roles including Deputy Superintendent since 2022; a 1988 VSP joiner, he possesses degrees from the and the . Additional executive positions filled via the 2025 promotions include Norman E. Gray, Sr., as Director of the Bureau of Strategic Governance (joined VSP in 1989; degrees from the and ), and Caren M. Sterling as Director of the Bureau of —the first woman in that role—effective , 2025, initially co-directing with Timothy D. Lyon until July 1 (Sterling joined in 2001; degrees from and ). Major Gregory T. Mathias was elevated to Deputy Director of the Bureau of Field Operations, commanding the Aviation Division since November 2024 (joined in 1998; degree from ). These changes prioritize enhanced coordination in , administrative support, and technological integration to address empirical trends in and traffic safety data.

Operational Activities and Achievements

Traffic Enforcement and Highway Safety

The Virginia State Police (VSP) holds primary for traffic enforcement on over 74,000 miles of state roadways and interstate highways across the , focusing on detecting and deterring violations such as speeding, , and impaired operation to mitigate crash risks and fatalities. This patrol function, executed primarily through the Bureau of Field Operations, emphasizes visible presence and proactive interventions to maintain orderly traffic flow and protect public safety. In 2023, VSP troopers issued 76,049 summonses for speeding and 46,822 for , reflecting targeted efforts against high-risk behaviors empirically linked to severe collisions. Troopers investigated 69,234 crashes during the same period, providing on-scene analysis and evidence collection to support accident reconstruction and legal proceedings. Additionally, they assisted 61,152 disabled or stranded motorists, underscoring a dual role in enforcement and roadside aid that enhances overall highway resilience.
Enforcement Metric (2023)Number
Speeding Summonses76,049
Reckless Driving Summonses46,822
Crashes Investigated69,234
Motorists Assisted61,152
VSP collaborates on seasonal and corridor-specific safety initiatives, such as the multi-state "I-95 Drive to Save Lives" campaign, which deploys heightened patrols along Interstate 95 to address impaired driving, speeding, and distractions during peak travel periods. Localized operations, like the 24-hour "Operation Drive Safe 460" launched on September 26, 2025, along Route 460, aim to reduce crashes through intensified and in high-incident areas. Similar efforts on target distracted and impaired driving, yielding arrests and citations that correlate with localized fatality declines. The agency's Safety Division bolsters these activities by regulating commercial motor carriers, inspecting over 500,000 vehicles annually for compliance with federal and state safety standards, and overseeing hazardous materials transport to prevent spills and structural failures on highways. Participation in seatbelt enforcement mobilizations, aligned with the Highway Safety Office, has driven measurable usage gains, including a 3.87% increase from fall campaigns and 4.5% from spring efforts in recent years. These data-driven interventions prioritize causal factors in crashes, such as non-use of restraints and excessive speed, over less empirically supported measures.

Criminal Investigations and Interdiction Efforts

The Virginia State Police Bureau of (BCI) conducts comprehensive investigations into criminal matters mandated by state statute, including Class 1, 2, or 3 felonies referred by the , , commonwealth's attorneys, police chiefs, sheriffs, or grand juries. The bureau also probes alleged misconduct by elected officials when directed by appropriate authorities and provides specialized technical and forensic support to investigations. Organized into divisions such as the Division, Special Investigations and Programs Division, General Investigation Section, and Section, the BCI operates from seven field offices statewide to facilitate thorough case handling. In fiscal year 2024, the General Investigation Section initiated 1,979 criminal cases, resulting in 497 arrests, 428 search warrants executed, and 202 fugitive extraditions. These efforts address a range of felonies, including homicides, sexual assaults, and , often in collaboration with local agencies lacking resources for complex probes. The Drug Enforcement Section, focused on narcotics trafficking and related crimes, initiated 3,384 cases that year, yielding 1,826 arrests, 910 search warrants, seizure of 763 illegal firearms, drugs valued at $135 million on the street, and 34 vehicles forfeited. Interdiction efforts emphasize highway enforcement to disrupt drug and contraband flows, exemplified by the Interstate Criminal Enforcement (ICE) program, which in 2024 conducted 2,113 traffic stops leading to 52 drug arrests, seizure of drugs worth $93.3 million, and 35 firearms recovered. Operations like Bold Blue Line further amplified these outcomes, initiating 588 investigations, seizing 359 firearms, drugs valued at $37.7 million, and $3.3 million in currency. Such targeted interdictions leverage troopers' patrol authority on interstates to identify suspicious transport, yielding empirical disruptions in criminal networks without reliance on subjective profiling claims often amplified in biased media narratives. The BCI's Human Trafficking Unit investigates both sex and labor trafficking, initiating 274 cases in 2024 with 34 arrests, 135 charges filed, and 59 search warrants served. Weekly crime suppression reports document ongoing tips—over 1,200 received by mid-2025—translating to hundreds of active investigations, victim identifications (e.g., 66 in one recent period), and services offered, prioritizing causal links between interstate mobility and trafficking routes. These units integrate intelligence from the Criminal Intelligence Division to prioritize high-impact cases, demonstrating measurable outputs in arrests and asset forfeitures over vague awareness campaigns.

Emergency Response and Support to Other Agencies

The Virginia State Police (VSP) serves as the lead agency for Emergency Support Function #13 (Public Safety and Security) under the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Operations Plan, coordinating law enforcement responses to maintain order, protect life and property, and facilitate mutual aid during disasters and critical incidents. This role encompasses deploying personnel and resources to support local, state, and federal partners overwhelmed by events such as hurricanes, floods, or widespread civil unrest, ensuring seamless interoperability through established protocols. VSP's involvement extends to enforcing state emergency declarations, where troopers provide traffic control, security perimeters, and supplemental enforcement to prevent looting or secondary hazards. Central to VSP's emergency capabilities is the Special Operations Division, which focuses on tactical response to high-risk scenarios, including barricaded suspects, hostage situations, and active threats, often augmenting under-resourced local agencies. The division's Tactical Team, functioning as the state's SWAT unit with 70 full-time members equipped for life-threatening events, delivers specialized intervention upon request, emphasizing precision to minimize casualties and preserve evidence. This team has supported operations requiring advanced tools like breaching equipment and unmanned aerial systems, integrating with regional mutual aid networks to address gaps in local tactical expertise. Additionally, the Search and Recovery Team conducts underwater rescues and evidence recovery in flood-prone or submerged environments, contributing to both immediate life-saving efforts and post-incident investigations. VSP extends support to other agencies through dispatch operations that relay critical intelligence to first responders, enabling coordinated multi-jurisdictional actions during surges in calls for service. The Homeland Security Division further bolsters this by sharing threat assessments and intelligence with partners, enhancing preparedness for terrorism-related or mass-casualty emergencies. In practice, such as during flood responses, VSP personnel have executed helicopter rescues from inundated structures, demonstrating operational agility in real-time crises. These efforts align with state mutual aid compacts, allowing VSP to deploy assets like aviation units or forensics teams without jurisdictional barriers, though reimbursement delays for out-of-state aid have occasionally strained resources, as noted in federal audits of interstate compacts. Overall, VSP's framework prioritizes scalable, evidence-based interventions grounded in training protocols like ALERRT for active shooter scenarios.

Controversies, Reforms, and Accountability

Historical and Recent Criticisms

The Virginia State Police (VSP) has faced limited documented historical criticisms of systemic , with internal investigations historically handled opaquely due to state laws shielding police personnel from public disclosure. Prior to reforms enacted in the , Virginia ranked among 23 states where and use-of-force remained effectively confidential, complicating external of VSP actions. One early concern involved allegations of in traffic enforcement dating to the late 1990s and early 2000s, where anecdotal reports and interstate stop data prompted the to advocate for legislative bans; a VSP-commissioned study deemed evidence inconclusive but acknowledged the need for data collection to address perceptions of bias. Recent criticisms have centered on disparities in traffic stops and isolated officer misconduct. Analysis of 2020–2023 under Virginia's Community Policing Act revealed Black drivers were stopped at rates 1.5–2 times higher than White drivers relative to population shares in many jurisdictions, including those patrolled by VSP, with search rates for Black motorists exceeding those for others despite lower contraband hit rates (around 20–25% versus 30–35% for White drivers); critics, including defense attorneys and Democratic lawmakers, attributed this to pretextual policing enabling , leading to 2021 legislation prohibiting stops for minor equipment violations like faulty taillights. VSP collection efforts have highlighted methodological challenges in benchmarking for profiling, such as accounting for driving patterns and rates, though disparities persisted post-reform. Individual cases have drawn scrutiny to hiring and ethical lapses. In 2019, former VSP Special Agent Luis Alberto Lopez-Perez was convicted on federal charges of , obstruction of justice, and lying to the FBI after accepting $10,000 to influence a criminal case outcome. A 2023 state investigation into VSP's background checks ended without a public report after revelations that ex-trooper Austin Lee Edwards, who resigned from VSP in 2017 amid unspecified issues, later committed a 2022 triple homicide in following a scheme; relatives alleged VSP inadequately flagged his failed 2016 evaluation during prior employment verification. Ongoing probes include a 2024 investigation by local media into VSP personnel. In 2024, VSP's Professional Standards Division processed 214 complaints, sustaining 38 for , reflecting broader post-2020 reforms that quadrupled statewide officer decertifications for violations like ; however, critics note persistent in non-decertified cases limits . A 2021 class-action by two troopers alleged systematic denial of overtime pay for off-duty work, claiming violations of state contracts and the Fair Labor Standards Act, though outcomes emphasized contractual disputes over widespread abuse. In 2025, Trooper Logan Pingley faced felony charges for threatening a civilian, underscoring isolated but recurrent ethical concerns amid VSP's 2,000+ personnel. These incidents, while not indicative of institutional per empirical reviews, have fueled calls for enhanced transparency in an agency otherwise noted for low per-capita complaint volumes relative to size.

Police Reforms in Virginia and Their Impact on VSP

In 2020, following the death of George Floyd, the enacted sweeping police reforms through legislation such as SB 5030 and related bills, which applied to all state agencies including the Virginia State Police (VSP). Key provisions banned chokeholds except in life-threatening situations, prohibited discharging firearms at moving vehicles unless necessary to prevent imminent death or serious injury, eliminated no-knock warrants, and expanded mandatory decertification for misconduct including lying during investigations, falsifying documents, or certain felony convictions. These measures, effective primarily from July 1, 2021, aimed to enhance accountability and were overseen by the Department of Services (DCJS), which audits training and standards for agencies like VSP. The VSP integrated these reforms into its operations, updating policies on , search procedures, and disciplinary processes as outlined in its 2022-2024 Strategic Plan, which emphasized alignment with principles of 21st-century policing. Decertifications statewide surged fourfold post-reform, averaging about 80 annually by 2025, with VSP among the top agencies decertifying over 10 officers for violations such as excessive force or dishonesty. This heightened scrutiny facilitated removal of problematic personnel but also introduced procedural complexities, including expanded investigative powers for DCJS and civilian oversight elements. Empirical impacts on VSP include persistent challenges, with over 300 sworn vacancies reported in 2024 amid national trends of declining following 2020 reforms, potentially exacerbated by increased concerns and morale effects from heightened measures. These shortages have strained operational capacity in areas like traffic enforcement and investigations, coinciding with broader issues such as falling clearance rates for crimes. Crime data shows mixed results: violent offenses rose 4.9% from 2021 to 2022 (17,655 incidents), reflecting a post-2020 national uptick, though rates later declined in 2024-2025, with no direct causal link established to reforms versus factors like disruptions. Overall, while reforms bolstered decertification efficacy, they correlated with hurdles without clear evidence of reduced misconduct incidence or improved public safety outcomes specific to VSP.

Oversight Mechanisms and Empirical Outcomes

The Virginia State Police maintains primary oversight through its Professional Standards Division, which includes of Internal Affairs responsible for investigating allegations of employee , including citizen complaints, internal referrals, and use-of-force incidents. Complaints are filed via supervisors, direct contact with the division, or online forms, with investigations typically completed within 45 workdays and reviewed by division commanders or bureau directors for disposition categories such as sustained, not sustained, exonerated, or unfounded. Criminal allegations are prioritized through the . External oversight is provided by the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), which enforces certification standards, conducts audits, and handles decertifications for serious under post-2020 reforms that expanded mandatory reporting of offenses like felony convictions or sustained dishonesty findings. The Superintendent, appointed by the , reports to executive authority, with legislative input via the General Assembly's budget and policy reviews, though statewide civilian oversight bodies remain limited and non-mandatory for state-level agencies. Empirical outcomes indicate consistent internal handling of complaints, with data published annually by the Virginia State Police. In 2023, the agency investigated 220 total complaints, comprising 80 external/citizen complaints and 140 internal complaints, resulting in 105 sustained findings (16 from external sources) and 34 instances of formal discipline. Sustained rates for external complaints hovered around 20-27% in recent years (e.g., 21 of 78 in 2023 per calendar-year data), reflecting a pattern where most allegations are not upheld, potentially due to evidentiary thresholds or internal review dynamics. Use-of-force investigations numbered 104 in 2023, integrated into broader complaint processes without separate public outcome breakdowns beyond sustainments. Statewide reforms have elevated decertification rates to approximately 80 annually since 2021, up from 81 total cases between 1999 and 2020, driven by DCJS-mandated reporting of disqualifying conduct, though agency-specific figures for the State Police are not disaggregated publicly. Transparency constraints persist, as Virginia law exempts many internal affairs records from routine disclosure, limiting independent verification of outcomes and contributing to criticisms of inconsistent across jurisdictions.
YearTotal ComplaintsSustainedFormal Discipline
202322010534
202216889Not specified
202115183Not specified

References

  1. https://vsp.virginia.gov/
  2. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/
  3. https://vsp.virginia.gov/about-us/department-history/
  4. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/superintendent/
  5. https://vsp.virginia.gov/about-us/
  6. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2023-VSP-FactsFigures.pdf
  7. https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/virginia-state-police
  8. http://www.statetrooperplates.com/virginia.html
  9. https://www.wtvr.com/2017/12/19/vsp-superintendent-colonel-steve-flaherty-retires-successor-named
  10. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2024-Facts-and-figures-8.29.25Org.pdf
  11. https://www.wric.com/news/virginia-news/virginia-state-police-superintendent-to-retire-after-nearly-four-decades-of-service/
  12. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title52/chapter1/section52-1/
  13. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title52/chapter1/section52-6/
  14. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bfo/
  15. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2020-VSP-FactsFigures.pdf
  16. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/
  17. https://vsp.virginia.gov/services/law-enforcement-services/
  18. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bass/communications/
  19. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title52/chapter1/
  20. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter1/section46.2-102/
  21. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title52/chapter6/section52-26/
  22. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginia-partnering-with-15-east-coast-states-for-annual-i-95-drive-to-save-lives/
  23. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ncr.4110250803/pdf
  24. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/general-investigation-section/
  25. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/drug-enforcement-section-des/
  26. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/support-services-division/
  27. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/criminal-intelligence-division-cid/
  28. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/high-tech-crimes-division-2/
  29. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bci/office-of-gaming-enforcement-coordinator/
  30. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bass/
  31. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bass/training-division/
  32. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bass/property-and-finance/
  33. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bsg/
  34. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginia-state-police-strengthens-agency-operations-and-services-with-executive-staff-restructure-promotions/
  35. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bsg/strategic-planning-and-research-division/
  36. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bsg/information-security/
  37. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title2.2/chapter55.3/section2.2-5514/
  38. https://vatrooper.com/faq/
  39. https://vsp.virginia.gov/jobs/civilian-jobs/
  40. https://vatrooper.com/
  41. https://vatrooper.com/trooper/
  42. https://www.lawenforcementedu.net/virginia/virginia-state-trooper/
  43. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginia-state-police-unveils-pathway-to-trooper-program/
  44. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginia-state-police-rising-to-recruiting-challenges/
  45. https://www.allcriminaljusticeschools.com/law-enforcement/state-trooper-virginia/
  46. https://vatrooper.com/academy-life/
  47. https://www.acenet.edu/National-Guide/Pages/Organization.aspx?oid=a0099b28-9016-e811-810f-5065f38bf0e1
  48. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginia-state-police-graduates-34-new-troopers/
  49. https://vsp.virginia.gov/impaired-driver-training-unit/
  50. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bfo/special-operations-division/
  51. https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaStatePolice/posts/every-future-trooper-anticipates-the-day-theyll-finally-get-to-wear-the-blue-and/10156421123855101/
  52. https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaStatePolice/posts/major-milestone-for-the-men-women-of-the-vsp-132nd-basic-session-class-a-uniform/10159222822470101/
  53. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Patch-Brochure-2025.pdf
  54. https://vsp.virginia.gov/services/patch-request/
  55. https://www.sigsauer.com/blog/virginia-state-police-select-sig-sauer-p320-pistol-for-standard-issue-firearm
  56. https://www.guns.com/news/2018/07/13/virginia-state-police-tap-sig-sauer-p320-as-next-duty-pistol-video
  57. https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/virginia-state-police-p320/
  58. https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/virginia-benelli-supernova-shotgun/
  59. https://www.shootingillustrated.com/content/va-state-police-chooses-benelli-shotguns-sig-sauer-pistols/
  60. https://www.uslawshield.com/non-lethal-weapons-virginia/
  61. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title19.2/chapter7.1/section19.2-83.4/
  62. https://www.cvcja.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LE-105-Equipment-List.pdf
  63. https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaStatePolice/posts/vsp-130th-basic-session-spent-time-this-week-on-the-range-at-our-driver-training/10157715147645101/
  64. https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a65425717/virginia-state-police-ford-mustang-pursuit-vehicles/
  65. https://www.government-fleet.com/10244030/virginia-state-police-add-ford-mustangs-to-fleet
  66. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2021-VSP-FactsFigures.pdf
  67. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2022-VSP-FactsFigures.pdf
  68. https://vsp.virginia.gov/safety-and-enforcement/aviation-unit/
  69. https://www.wdbj7.com/2025/07/03/virginia-state-police-start-training-new-aircraft/
  70. https://www.wavy.com/news/virginia/virginia-state-police-pilots-take-flight-with-new-aircrafts/
  71. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/VSP-Annual-Report-2019-1.pdf
  72. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title2.2/chapter11/article7/
  73. https://vsp.virginia.gov/governor-glenn-youngkin-announces-appointment-of-interim-superintendent-matthew-hanley-as-virginia-state-police-superintendent/
  74. https://www.commonwealth.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/secretary-of-the-commonwealth/pdf/org-charts/2023/Department-of-State-Police----Executive-and-Command-Staff-Organizational-Chart-11.16.23.pdf
  75. https://www.policeforum.org/assets/2024.12.10_Office%2520of%2520Gov%2520Glenn%2520Younkin_VA%2520State%2520Police%2520Superintendent_Position%2520Profile.pdf
  76. https://www.scps.virginia.edu/center-public-safety-and-justice/matthew-d-hanley
  77. https://vsp.virginia.gov/safety-and-enforcement/
  78. https://www.wsls.com/news/virginia/2025/09/26/virginia-state-police-launching-24-hour-highway-safety-initiative-on-route-460/
  79. https://www.wdbj7.com/2025/06/25/virginia-state-police-prep-safety-operation-along-i-81/
  80. https://vsp.virginia.gov/safety-and-enforcement/safety-division/
  81. https://vsp.virginia.gov/operation-snow-eagle-achieves-significant-criminal-interdictions/
  82. https://vsp.virginia.gov/weekly-report-virginia-state-police-ongoing-crime-suppression-operations-recovering-firearms-narcotics-and-investigating-human-trafficking-3/
  83. https://www.vaemergency.gov/resources/emergency-support-functions
  84. https://www.co.rockbridge.va.us/DocumentCenter/View/111/ESF13--Public-Safety
  85. https://www.vaemergency.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/2021-coveop-final-approved-102021-1.pdf
  86. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/emergency/438211/declaration-state-emergency-commonwealth-virginia-due-winter-weather-120818.pdf
  87. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bfo/tactical-team-program/
  88. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/sites/dcjs.virginia.gov/files/publications/law-enforcement/supplemental-emergency-assistance-local-law-enforcement-agencies.pdf
  89. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bfo/search-and-rescue-team/
  90. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bfo/dispatch/
  91. https://www.thecarrollnews.com/news/virginia-state-police-unveil-thank-a-trooper-program/article_9cef447b-84b6-4533-8855-c6d5469799bf.html
  92. https://www.gao.gov/assets/a263302.html
  93. https://virginiamercury.com/2020/07/27/in-virginia-records-detailing-police-misconduct-and-use-of-force-are-effectively-secret/
  94. https://vcij.org/stories/virginia-is-in-the-minority-of-states-keeping-even-the-most-basic-police-data-secret
  95. https://www.acluva.org/press-releases/aclu-seeks-passage-racial-profiling-bill-says-state-police-study-inconclusive/
  96. https://www.vpm.org/news/2023-08-03/black-hispanic-drivers-traffic-stops-policing-virginia-dcjs
  97. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/sites/dcjs.virginia.gov/files/publications/law-enforcement/cy23-cpa-tsreport-final.pdf
  98. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/traffic-stops-are-flashpoint-policing-america-reformers-are-winning-big-n1280594
  99. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/sites/dcjs.virginia.gov/files/publications/research/report-analysis-traffic-stop-data.pdf
  100. https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdva/pr/former-virginia-state-police-special-agent-convicted-bribery-obstruction-justice-and
  101. https://virginiamercury.com/2023/05/04/virginias-probe-into-state-police-hiring-of-catfish-cop-ends-with-no-investigative-report/
  102. https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-05-19/catfish-cop-austin-lee-edwards-failed-mental-health
  103. https://www.wdbj7.com/video/2024/07/19/target-7-virginia-state-police-bribery-investigation/
  104. https://www.29news.com/2025/06/06/felony-case-against-virginia-trooper-legal-analyst-says-fair-trial-is-essential/
  105. https://vcij.org/stories/as-virginia-police-reforms-take-hold-decertifications-jump
  106. https://apnews.com/article/business-police-lawsuits-virginia-096094dd0b2aca910a64f1c1328deaac
  107. https://virginiamercury.com/2020/11/11/every-criminal-justice-reform-that-passed-in-virginia-after-george-floyds-death/
  108. https://legacylis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?202%2Bsum%2BSB5030
  109. https://virginiamercury.com/briefs/police-reforms-go-into-effect-in-virginia/
  110. https://www.vpm.org/news/2022-03-10/nearly-70-police-officers-decertified-for-misconduct-following-2020-reforms
  111. https://www.usccr.gov/files/2024-04/policy-brief_2023-va-police-accountability.pdf
  112. https://vsp.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2022-VSP-Strategic-Plan.pdf
  113. https://www.whro.org/virginia-center-for-investigative-journalism/2025-05-30/vcij-decertificationdata
  114. https://www.muckrock.com/news/archives/2025/jun/03/as-virginia-police-reforms-take-hold-decertifications-jump/
  115. https://www.vpm.org/news/2024-04-16/police-reform-may-expand-in-virginia-but-behind-closed-doors
  116. https://www.wric.com/news/virginia-news/vsp-staffing-shortage-vacancies/
  117. https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/virginias-criminal-justice-crossroads-pre-arrest-issues-in-the-commonwealth/
  118. https://vsp.virginia.gov/virginias-annual-crime-analysis-report-now-available-on-virginia-state-police-website/
  119. https://virginiamercury.com/2025/07/25/report-shows-violent-crime-continues-to-drop-across-us-cities-including-3-in-va/
  120. https://vsp.virginia.gov/sections-units-bureaus/bsg/office-of-internal-affairs/
  121. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.