How can DCJS help local agencies to develop written orders?
The Law Enforcement Services (LES) Section maintains the Sample Directives for Virginia Law Enforcement Agencies, a compendium of about 60 sample orders on most important operational and administrative topics, to help local agencies develop their own comprehensive, written guidance. The topics in the manual vary from performance evaluations to domestic violence, communicable diseases to the use of force. The orders are intended to stimulate interest in policy development and to serve as examples of current professional thinking. The administrative component of the manual is oriented toward small law enforcement agencies with little specialization beyond patrol officers and a few investigators. It consists of orders on organizational matters. The second, operational component consists of orders on common law enforcement tasks. The sample orders are updated periodically and a thoroughly revised, fourth edition of the manual is now available.

How can I obtain a copy of the manual?
The manual is available free of charge. It does not exist in a printed format, so agencies can either download it (in Rich Text Format) from this web site, or submit two formatted, high-density 3.5 inch diskettes for a copy. To reach the web version, click here. If sending diskettes, specify whether the manual should be copied in Wordperfect 5.1 or Microsoft Word 6.0. Please include an address label. If you have any further questions, please contact Tim Paul.

Does DCJS have copies of policies from other agencies?
The Law Enforcement Services (LES) Section maintains a substantial library of orders from many agencies on many topics, including related research publications and government reports. The directives manuals of several law enforcement agencies are maintained on computer media and can be copied on request. Contact Tim Paul with your specific needs.

Can DCJS assist my agency in developing policies?
On request, the Law Enforcement Services (LES) Section will help an agency develop, revise, or critically review orders on high-risk, high-liability topics. In particular, this assistance is intended to guide agencies that seek accreditation through the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. This assistance can be tailored to the needs of the agency requesting the service, and is handled mainly through correspondence and visits.

Does DCJS provide training in policy development?
The Law Enforcement Services (LES) Section conducts seminars and workshops on policy development. This training is suitable either for in-service management classes or it can be tailored to the specific needs of an agency. Policy workshops focus on how to organize and plan the development of written orders, how to write them, and how to evaluate them. The workshops and seminars might have a particular subject focus, such as domestic violence, the use of force, or sexual harassment. Contact Tim Paul to discuss your interests and needs.

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