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Police Services
Mission
The mission of the Vinton Police Department is to improve the quality of life by preserving the peace and safety of the community through the formation of partnerships, creating positive interaction between the public and the police while continuing to serve the unique needs of the Town of Vinton.
Neighbors by Ring App
Our police department is excited to be joining the Neighbors by Ring App in an effort to reduce crime in our Community. This app will allow the Vinton Police to inform the community of real-time crime and safety events so you can always stay informed. The Neighbors by Ring App also allows you, the user, to see something and share something directly with Vinton Police. You do not need Ring devices to participate, anyone with any brand of camera system can upload content to the Neighbors App! We are encouraging each and every one of you to spread the word out to the community about the Neighbors App. To download the Neighbors App, please text "staysafe" to 555888.
Remember, if you see something, share something--report it to the Vinton Police Department by calling Dispatch at 540-562-3265.
McGruff the Crime Dog
The Vinton Police Department was awarded the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant for Youth Engagement, which will fund supplies and materials for McGruff the Crime Dog’s Safety Club and Meet & Greet sessions at local Town of Vinton events. Children, ages 5 - 10 years old, will have an opportunity to learn about safety topics ranging from bullying to emergency readiness.
Keep a lookout for McGruff the Crime Dog and his sidekick, Scruff, at Town events and the Vinton Library throughout the year!
Citizens Police Academy
This program is designed to give insight on how the Police Department operates along with its partner agencies. Classes Include: an overview of police operations, informational training on Patrol Operations, RADAR, Crime Prevention, Investigations, Narcotics, Use of Force, and First Aid. Tours will be given of the Virginia Department of Forensic Science - Western Lab, Emergency Communications Center, and the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office - Jail Division. The Courthouse and Commonwealth Attorney Block will also be reviewed.
Applications to attend the Citizens Police Academy must be submitted to Sergeant Michael Caldwell. Class is limited to participants. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Dates for the Academy are TBA.