Virginia Law

A. Pursuant to subdivision 61 of § 9.1-102 of the Code of Virginia, the department, under the direction of the board, shall adopt statewide professional standards of conduct applicable to all certified law-enforcement officers and certified jail officers and appropriate due process procedures for decertification based on serious misconduct in violation of this section.

B. All certified law-enforcement officers and certified jail officers must comply with the following standards:

1. Enforce the Constitution of the United States, the laws of the United States, and the laws and Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia;

2. Demonstrate exemplary commitment to obeying the laws of the United States and laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the policies of the employing agency for each certified law-enforcement officer or certified jail officer;

3. Treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of race or ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, disability, or other protected status, consistent with the Virginia Human Rights Act (§ 2.2-3900 et seq. of the Code of Virginia);

4. Ensure the preservation of human life and the constitutional right of liberty, equality, and justice;

5. Uphold public trust;

6. Maintain the highest ethical standards;

7. Take every reasonable opportunity to enhance and improve professional knowledge and competence; and

8. Hold oneself and others accountable to the adherence of the standards in this subsection.