Media Center - News Release
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 28, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov
DCR's Office of Public Safety and Law Enforcement achieves reaccreditation from Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of DCR)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of DCR)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of DCR)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of DCR)
(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Photo courtesy of DCR)
RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Office of Public Safety and Law Enforcement has been reaccredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission, recognizing the department’s continued commitment to professionalism, accountability and excellence in public safety and law enforcement operations.
Reaccreditation is awarded to agencies that demonstrate ongoing compliance with nearly 200 performance standards covering administration, operations, training, personnel management and community engagement. Agencies undergo a comprehensive review process that includes policy evaluation, on-site assessments and interviews with staff.
“Achieving reaccreditation reflects the dedication of our Public Safety and Law Enforcement leadership team and law enforcement rangers,” said DCR Director Nikki Rovner. “Their work ensures that visitors to Virginia’s state parks and natural area preserves experience safe, well-managed outdoor spaces supported by a law enforcement agency that meets rigorous statewide standards.”
The Office of Public Safety and Law Enforcement provides patrol, criminal investigation, emergency response, visitor assistance, special event support and resource protection in 44 Virginia State Parks and nine dedicated natural areas, totaling more than 140,000 acres. The office works closely with local, state and federal partners to ensure consistent, high-quality service to millions of visitors each year.
“Maintaining this accreditation is an important reminder of our responsibility to the public,” said DCR Chief of Public Safety and Law Enforcement Scott Vantrease. “It reinforces our commitment to transparency, continuous improvement and the highest level of professional conduct.”
The Office of Public Safety and Law Enforcement was the first conservation and recreation law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth to gain accreditation from the VLEPSC in 2010. Accreditation must be obtained every four years.
For more information about the Office of Public Safety and Law Enforcement, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/public-safety-law-enforcement/.
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About the Department of Conservation and RecreationThe Department of Conservation and Recreation is the state's lead natural resource conservation agency. DCR protects what Virginians care about – natural habitat, parks, clean water, dams, open space and access to the outdoors. For more information, please visit www.dcr.virginia.gov.
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