Martinsville sheriff’s office earns reaccreditation from VLEPSC
The Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPSC) held its monthly meeting at New College Institute on Thursday, March 5, where several sheriff’s offices awaited the verdict on their accreditation status.
Among those reviewed was the Martinsville Sheriff’s Office, which successfully earned reaccreditation. The agency has now been accredited more than half a dozen times and remains one of the oldest accredited departments in the state.
“I am very fortunate. I don’t know a member of my agency that is not sold on accreditation and will support anything they can for accreditation,” said Martinsville Sheriff Steve Draper, who also serves as vice chairman of the VLEPSC committee.
Accreditation is more than just a title—it ensures effective policing, enforces stringent policies, and helps build public confidence in law enforcement agencies. Departments that do not meet all standards are not eligible to apply for accreditation.
“This process is so important for maintaining proper community and law enforcement relations,” said Martinsville Police Chief Robert Fincher, who attended the meeting. “It allows the public to know that our officers are doing the most professional job they possibly can.”
Fincher and Draper both expressed pride in hosting the meeting in Martinsville. Henry County Sheriff Wayne Davis also attended.
Other law enforcement agencies approved for reaccreditation included:
*Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office
*Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
*Purcellville Police Department
*Williamsburg-James City County Sheriff’s Office
All agencies received positive assessments and were praised for their commitment to excellence.
To achieve accreditation, departments must meet 197 rigorous standards, covering everything from weapons policies to officer conduct and professionalism.
“It’s great to have an accreditation team as talented as this come out,” said Loudoun County Sheriff Michael Chapman.
At the meeting, assessors summarized their reports, highlighting key areas such as officer attitudes and department professionalism to give the committee insight into each agency’s performance.
Accreditation is valid for four years, meaning the Martinsville Sheriff’s Office will undergo its next review in 2029. This marks the second time that the VLEPSC has met in Martinsville.
