Virginia to Public: ‘Trust Us, You Don’t Need to Know What Your Police Are Up To’

Written by: Sam Orlando

STAUNTON, VIRGINIA - In an age where transparency is the rallying cry for government accountability, Virginia has taken a bold stance: "Transparency? We’ll pass, thanks." Unlike its neighbors—Maryland, North Carolina, and Tennessee—Virginia has chosen to keep even the most basic police data hidden from public view. Because, as they say, ignorance is bliss.

The Data Nobody Gets to See

While other states release detailed information on police use of force, disciplinary actions, and misconduct complaints, Virginia has embraced a “need-to-not-know” policy. Want to know if a certain officer has a history of questionable behavior? Too bad. Interested in statewide trends in police shootings? Good luck. Curious if your tax dollars are quietly paying out misconduct settlements? Keep dreaming.

Virginia’s secrecy ensures that not even researchers or journalists can access data that could provide insight into how well—or poorly—its police departments are performing. This cloak of invisibility leaves residents guessing, critics fuming, and law enforcement basking in the glow of zero accountability.

Neighboring States Lead by Example

What makes Virginia’s stance even more baffling is that its neighbors have figured out how to embrace transparency without the sky falling. States like Maryland and North Carolina publicly release police data, enabling citizens to understand the conduct of their local law enforcement. Meanwhile, Virginia clings to its blackout policy as if sharing data might somehow summon the apocalypse.

Why the Secrecy?

Supporters of the current system argue that restricting access to police data protects officers' privacy and ensures public safety. Critics, however, have a different take. They believe the secrecy protects not the public, but the system itself—shielding bad actors and suppressing calls for reform.

Civil rights advocates warn that this lack of transparency fuels mistrust between communities and police, particularly in areas with histories of strained relationships. “If you’re not willing to share what’s going on, what are you hiding?” asked one activist. “In Virginia, it seems like the answer is: plenty.”

The Call for Change

Pressure is mounting for Virginia to join the modern era of accountability. Activists, journalists, and even some local lawmakers are calling for legislation that would make police data more accessible. They argue that transparency isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a necessary tool for reform.

Until then, Virginia residents will have to rely on anecdotes, lawsuits, and the occasional whistleblower to understand what’s happening within their police departments. In the meantime, one can’t help but wonder: Is the state protecting its officers, or simply protecting its secrets?