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VACP Recommendations to Move Virginia Law Enforcement Forward
Virginia's police chiefs have been leaders in professional and progressive police reform programs since the release of the 21st Century Policing Report in May 2015. However, efforts to raise hiring standards, improve training and equipment and expand services into high-need community sectors have been complicated by declining budgets and the decreasing number of qualified individuals entering the police profession.
The tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer is unforgivable and has been condemned by Virginia's law enforcement leaders. Many groups are recommending police reforms, some of which have merit and are worthy of consideration. As an organization of law enforcement executives, the VACP offers our recommendations that we believe will bring positive reforms and improve public safety services for the communities we serve. While some recommendations may be appropriate for statewide application, others need to be left to local option.
The VACP is committed to supporting the professional development of our police officers. We have developed an online training module on implicit bias that we will make available very soon to every law enforcement officer in Virginia free of charge. We look forward to the opportunity to work with government leaders, civic organizations, faith leaders and communities to heal the wounds and work together for a safer Virginia.
VIEW THE VACP'S RECOMMENDATIONS TO MOVE VIRGINIA LAW ENFORCEMENT FORWARD (PDF)
