Since September 1997 the Department has held the prestigious status of accreditation under the auspices of the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPSC). This achievement represents a milestone in the history of the Salem Police Department as practically every employee contributed in some manner to the success that is represented in achieving agency accreditation.


State accreditation is the best measure of an agency’s compliance with professional law enforcement standards, as determined by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. The Commission consists of Virginia sheriffs and police chiefs selected for their expertise and knowledge. Adherence to an acknowledged body of professional standards may help protect an agency against a variety of potential liability problems.

For more information please visit the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission's (VLEPSC) website at: http://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/accred/.