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Oldest police department in the United States of America From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Virginia Division of Capitol Police is America's oldest police department,[dubious – discuss] originating in 1618.
 | This article may rely excessively on sources too closely associated with the subject, potentially preventing the article from being verifiable and neutral. (November 2023) |
 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (May 2022) |
| Virginia Division of Capitol Police | |
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| Jurisdictional structure | |
| Constituting instrument |
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| Operational structure | |
| Overseen by | Legislative Support Committee |
| Website | |
| http://dcp.virginia.gov/ | |
| [1] | |
A legislative agency, today the Division of Capitol Police is responsible for:
The capitol police was established in 1618 at Jamestown, Virginia. The Guard, consisting of 10 men was formed to protect the Governor from the hostile Indian population. By 1663, the force was expanded to a force of 20 men and assigned to protect the Governor, the council, and the Colonial Assembly. The Capitol was moved to Williamsburg, Virginia in 1699 where the Guard remained an important part of the executive and legislative process. In 1780, the Capitol of Virginia was again relocated to a safer location, its present home in Richmond. In 1801, the General Assembly enacted legislation creating The Public Guard, which was responsible for protecting public property in Richmond. This military force remained active until 1869.
The term "Capitol Police" was first used in an act of the Virginia General Assembly passed on January 28, 1884. This act provided "for the appointment of Capitol Police certain other employees about the Public Buildings and Grounds." The Capitol Police have steadily expanded in size and remain in service to this day.
Uniformed Patrol, Homeland Security, Special Operations and Investigations
Emergency Preparedness Section and Administrative Section
The Virginia State Police Executive Protective Division is the primary security for the Governor.
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