The Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) serves the residents of Prince William County, Virginia, including the community of Woodbridge. Established on July 1, 1970, the department has grown into a nationally accredited law enforcement agency with over 700 sworn officers and approximately 250 civilian staff members .

Mission & Values

The department’s mission is to effectively and impartially enforce the law while serving and protecting the community. Core values include integrity, honesty, and equality, with a commitment to accountability, transparency, and respect in all police services .

Organizational Structure

PWCPD is divided into three patrol districts: Central, Eastern, and Western. Each district operates 24/7, providing comprehensive coverage across the county’s 348 square miles . The department is led by Chief Peter J. Newsham .

Community Engagement & Recruitment

PWCPD emphasizes community engagement and is actively recruiting qualified candidates through initiatives like the Fast Track program, which expedites the hiring process to approximately 90 days . The department also maintains an active presence on social media and other platforms to keep the public informed.

Recent Incidents

In recent months, PWCPD has been involved in several high-profile incidents in the Woodbridge area, including:
• A fatal shooting in April 2025 at the Westminster at Lake Ridge senior living facility, where officers responded to a man in crisis armed with a knife .
• A July 2025 incident near Potomac Mills mall, where a man armed with a crossbow was fatally shot after a standoff with police .

These events have been subject to investigations by regional oversight bodies to ensure transparency and accountability.

Contact Information

For non-emergency assistance, residents can contact the Eastern District Station at (703) 792-6500. In case of emergencies, dial 9-1-1. Additional contact details and resources are available on the official PWCPD website