Crime Prevention

A Strong Commitment to Community Policing & Crime Prevention

Community Policing is a philosophy based on forging a partnership between police and the community, so that they can work together on solving problems of crime, fear of crime, and disorder, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life in their neighborhoods.


The Bristol Virginia Police Department (BVPD) strongly embraces a philosophy of community policing, an important police / community partnership that has proven to prevent and reduce crime. This partnership is accomplished in a variety of ways and is administered by a certified Crime Prevention Specialist, Seth Jones.


Functions of the Crime Prevention Unit

Programs administered by the Crime Prevention Unit throughout the city include:

  • Neighborhood Watch
  • Different Ways to Report Crime
  • Alarm Procedures
  • Holiday/Halloween Safety Tips
  • Chief's Kids
  • Employee Safety Training
  • Personal Safety Training
  • National Night Out
  • Bicycle Rodeo
  • Police Department Tours for Youth
  • THEFT - Totally Hide Everything From Thieves
  • CERT - Community Emergency Response Team
  • Fingerprinting for Children
  • Emergency Preparedness
The Crime Prevention Unit presented their programs and services to over 12,000 people in 2011/2012.

The Crime Prevention Unit along with the citizens of Bristol, continue to work together in reducing crime and helping to keep Bristol a good place to live.

Mission Statement

Recognizing that the principle object to be obtained in law enforcement is the prevention of crime, and because the entire community must be involved in public safety: The crime prevention mission is to develop community responsibility directed at reducing the threat of crime and enhancing safety, thereby resulting in an environment where crime cannot flourish.

For More Information

If you have any questions, please contact the Bristol Virginia Police Department Crime Prevention Unit at (276) 645-7281.