Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
The Aquia Harbour Police Department operates under the authority of Virginia State law under Virginia Code 9.1-101. Virginia Code 9.1-101 provides the legal framework and outlines the duties and responsibilities of the private Police Department. Private Police Departments are required to operate in tandem with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chief of Police or Sheriff, who is the Chief local law enforcement officer. The MOU shall address the duties and responsibilities of the private Police Department with regard to the enforcement of laws and the conduct of criminal investigations.
Furthermore, private Police Departments are subject to and must comply with the Constitution of the United States; the Constitution of Virginia; the laws governing the municipal police departments; and all provisions set forth on minimum qualifications, certification training, record management, and evidence maintenance; the same as any other law enforcement agency in the State of Virginia.
Currently the Aquia Harbour Police Department operates under a MOU which was signed by both Chief Cameron and Sheriff Decatur in 2025. This formal partnership with the Stafford County Sheriff's Office establishes the roles and responsibilities of the Aquia Harbour Police Department and the officers in relation to the county's law enforcement, fostering a strong cooperation and coordination between the two agencies. This legal framework helps ensure that the Aquia Harbour Police Department's operations are transparent, accountable, and integrated with the broader public safety system, ultimately enhancing the security and well-being of the Aquia Harbour community. Both agencies have agreed that certain incidents will continue to be primarily managed by the Stafford County Sheriff's Office due to the availability of resources. However, the Aquia Harbour Police Department will still remain an active investigatory participant in these incidents.
To access the current operational Memorandum of Understanding, please click on the icon below