BVPD
Our Values
Our values guide us in all decision making and are woven into the fabric of this organization. When confronted with a situation that is not clearly enumerated by the U.S. Constitution, the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, or our local ordinances or policies, our values will guide us in making appropriate decisions based on the circumstances at the time we encounter them. Our values are:
Service Before Self
Service Before Self:
The cornerstone of all public service especially law enforcement. Integrity is the currency of any police officer and without it, we are not effective and will never command the respect, nor gain the trust and acceptance of the communities in which we serve. Police officers are expected to hold themselves to a high standard. The community is not responsible for setting these standards. Rather, we should set the benchmarks to which we hold ourselves accountable. Officers of the Buena Vista Police Department will conduct themselves in a manner, on and off duty, that is an example for others to emulate. Integrity is never negotiable.
Respect at all times goes beyond respect for persons. It is a guiding principle that we will practice by having respect for ourselves, our profession, and our community. We are privileged to be trusted with carrying out our public service mandate. We will present ourselves in a respectful manner at all times.
Courage in all action transcends bravery in the face of danger. It means making hard decisions even when it is contrary to our personal interests or potentially means difficulty for our colleagues. It demands that we carry out our duties with constant professionalism and without bias or prejudice. It is essential to the reputation that we have in our community, and it must be practiced every day.
Public service is a noble calling. It is arduous and rewarding. We are the guardians that have chosen this life. At all times, we will serve in a manner that brings credit to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the City of Buena Vista, and the Buena Vista Police Department.