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1. How do you apply for the position of police officer?

You can obtain an application at Human Resources located at 114 North Broad Street in Salem or you can refer to our recruitment link for more information.

2. How do I self-report a crime?

The Salem Police Department accepts online police reporting for certain non-violent crimes. Please fill out the online form.

3. I am having problems with speeding motorists in my neighborhood. Who do I contact?

You should ask to speak to a Supervisor at 540-375-3078 or complete the Traffic Complaint Form (PDF) and email it to salempolice@salemva.gov

4. How do I get a copy of an automobile crash report?

Under normal circumstances, a crash report is available 24 to 48 hours upon completion of the report by the Officer. There is a $10 fee for this service. Please call 540-375-3083 and ask for a Records Clerk to confirm the report is available.

5. How do I obtain an amplification permit?

You must request amplification permits from the office of the Deputy Chief of Police. There is a form that can be picked up at the police department lobby or you can print it from our forms page. After completing the form, it must be brought to the police department for approval.

6. Can I request an officer to work off duty at my business to provide security?

Yes. However, such requests must be approved by the Deputy Chief of Police. We do not allow our officers to "moonlight". Instead they are paid by the city and you are charged a flat rate for service which is reimbursed to the city. This allows them to be covered by the necessary insurance.

7. When I need the police for a non emergency situation should I call 911?

No, you should call the non-emergency number at 540-375-3078 where you will be connected with a Telecommunicator who will dispatch an officer to your location. Examples of non-emergency calls would include but are not limited to: a break-in not in progress, property damage, traffic concerns, and removal of dead animals from the roadway.

We ask that citizens do not send us Facebook messages. The Facebook account is not monitored 24 hours a day and could go unanswered for an extended period of time.

Anytime you would like to ask a question or need to speak to an Officer please call 540-375-3083.

8. How can I get my Fingerprints taken?

Come to the Salem Police Department on any Monday or Wednesday between 8 am and 11 am with your provided fingerprint card issued by the company or entity that sent you, except for personal fingerprinting as we will provide the card.

There is a $10 fee for fingerprinting.

9. Do I need fingerprints for a concealed weapon permit?

No, all you need to do is go to the Salem Circuit Court and obtain a concealed weapon permit application and pay the required fees. After payment and completion of the application bring the application to the Salem Police Department and drop off for processing.

You can download an application from the Virginia State Police.

10. When can I pick up property that belongs to me from the Police Department?

Call the Forensic services unit to schedule a time for pickup 540-375-3083. For firearms pickup you must be lawfully able to own or possess a firearm in order to pickup. Some form of photo identification must be presented before any property can be released.