BVSO FAQ

Where is the Sheriff's Office  located?

• The Bristol Virginia Sheriff's Office is located at 417 Cumberland Street in downtown Bristol, Virginia.  (see interactive map)

How do I apply for employment?

• Applicants interested in applying for employment at the Bristol Virginia Sheriff's Office may apply at the Virginia Employment Commission.

How to make a complaint? 

• See Report a Complaint if you wish to make a complaint about the actions of a deputy or about any aspect of our operations.

How to commend an employee?

• See Report a Commendation if you wish to commend the actions of a deputy or about any aspect of our operations.

What is the Virginia VINE system and how do I register?

• The Virginia VINE system is a service through which victims of crime can use the telephone or internet to search for information regarding the custody status of their offender and to register to receive telephone and email notification when the offender's custody status changes. The VINE toll-free number for the Virginia VINE system is (800) 467-4943. The service is provided to assist victims of crime who have a right to know about their offender's custody status. 

What is the Victim Request for Notification of Criminal Alien Status program and where do I register?

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) administers a Victim Notification Program which allows eligible victims and witnesses to obtain reliable and timely information regarding a criminal alien's release from custody. Eligible victims or witnesses can visit the ICE form link to register for the service.

What is the difference between the Bristol Virginia Sheriffs Office and the Bristol Virginia Police Department?

• The condensed answer is, both agencies are part of the local criminal justice system and authorized by Virginia Statutes with equal powers of arrest.  The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for the Bristol City Jail, transporting of prisoners, providing security for the courts, and service of civil and criminal process.  The Police Department is accountable for acting in response to and investigating criminal incidents, citizen’s complaints, traffic incidents, etc.  They operate the 911-communication system and provide the cities emergency response team.  Although the primary duties do not overlap, either agency may be made available to the other for assistance.
  
  

How can I obtain a warrant?

• See the history and responsibilities of a Virginia Magistrate.

What is the hierarchy of Virginia's Court System?

• See the organizational structure of the Virginia Judicial System.

How do I request records from the Bristol Virginia Sheriff's Office?

• The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), § 2.2-3700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, guarantees citizens of the Commonwealth and representatives of the media access to public records held by public bodies, public officials, and public employees. To this end, the Bristol Virginia Sheriff's Office promotes transparency in government and is committed to openly conduct the public's business. Click here to learn more about the rights of requesters and the responsibilities of this agency under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.