FAQs

What are the sheriff's office hours?

The Administrative Office is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Deputies and dispatchers are on duty 24 hours daily to serve you.

I was recently involved in an auto accident. Where can I obtain a copy of the police report for my insurance company?

The Administrative Office staff handles all accident report requests. Call (804) 580-5221. If your accident was handled by Virginia State Police (VSP), you need to contact their dispatch center at (804) 333-3800. There is an $8.00 cash-only fee for VSP reports.

How do I get a Protective Order?

The Commonwealth of Virginia permits any person—referred to as the petitioner—to visit any sheriff's office in Virginia to obtain a protective order. In order to obtain a protective order, you need to see a Magistrate. Magistrates are available 24-hours a day as described below.

  • To see a Magistrate in person

Because Magistrates rotate between several counties, we suggest you call the communications officer to determine where the Magistrate is stationed. The number to call is (804) 580-5221.

  • To see a Magistrate by video

To see a Magistrate by video, come to the sheriff’s office. It is best to arrange a time for this since a deputy is required to work the video equipment. To schedule a time, call (804) 580-5221.

What if I need to call the sheriff's office but it's not an emergency?

All Sheriff's Office calls are important, but if your call is not an emergency, dial (804) 580-5221.

911 should only be used for calls in which a unit must be dispatched immediately in order to preserve and protect life or property.

What if I need a criminal background check or fingerprints?

Visit the Community Services (Other services) page for information about getting these done.

How can I file a grievance, complaint, or commendation regarding a sheriff's office employee?

Anyone can file a commendation or complaint against sheriff's office personnel at any time.

  • Complaints must be documented on a Confidential Report of Complaint form which can be obtained in person at Northumberland County Sheriff's Office or downloaded HERE to handwrite your complaint or HERE for a fillable form. Grievances will be investigated by the Sheriff and/or appropriate supervisor. A completed complaint form may be mailed to Sheriff John A Beauchamp, Northumberland Sheriff’s Office, PO Box 310, Heathsville, VA. 22473 or turned in in person at 195 Judicial Pl. Heathsville, VA.

  • Send commendations to Sheriff John A. Beauchamp, Northumberland County Sheriff's Office, PO Box 310, Heathsville, VA  22473. Please explain the specific action or actions of the officer or the division which merits acknowledgment. Your letter will be forwarded to the appropriate supervisor as well.