Internal Affairs Division

The purpose of the Internal Affairs Division (or Office of Professional Standards) is to ensure the integrity of the Petersburg Bureau of Police through the objective and intensive investigation of allegations of police misconduct. The Office of Professional Standards is principally responsible for helping the Petersburg Bureau of Police maintain its credibility and respect both from the public it serves and among its members.

Under the Chief's direction, the Office of Professional Standards is responsible for investigating all citizen complaints involving excessive force, abuse of authority, ethnic slurs, and civil rights violations, as well as complaints made by the department members against other employees. The Office of Professional Standards is responsible for tracking and maintaining files for all complaints. Investigators also act as a resource and consultant for other police commands handling complaints internally.

What is a Complaint? 
The men and women of the Petersburg Bureau of Police make every effort to act legally and properly and to treat all persons fairly and with respect. Citizen input is very important to our ongoing evaluation process and allows us to ensure our services are meeting all of the needs of area residents. To ensure the reliability and integrity of the Petersburg Bureau of Police, we provide an open and receptive system that encourages citizens to report sincere complaints of misconduct. All inquiries of employee misconduct or concern will be received, thoroughly documented and confidentially investigated.

Commendations and Complaint Procedures: 

Please select one of the following methods to commend or voice a concern about an employee or employees:

-          Complete and submit the on-line complaint document.

-          Call (804) 732-4222, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.  and ask for an on-duty supervisor to contact you.

-          Visit the Petersburg Bureau of Police located at 37 E. Tabb Street Petersburg, VA