The City of Portsmouth was founded in 1752 and incorporated by the Virginia General Assembly in 1858.  Over 250 years old, the city is home to one of the world's greatest natural harbors, situated on the James and Elizabeth Rivers, which empties into the Chesapeake Bay. Portsmouth, with a land area of approximately 33 square miles and a population of 96,066, is located in the heart of the Hampton Roads Region. It is bordered by Chesapeake and Suffolk, respectively, to the south and west and the City of Norfolk to the east. 

The City of Portsmouth boasts 75.8 miles of shoreline and is home to Mile Marker Zero of the Atlantic Intercoastal Waterway, which stretches from Maine to Florida.  Part of one of the world’s largest natural harbors, Portsmouth is just 18 miles from the open sea. Portsmouth's location on navigable waterways has been a dominant force in the City’s rich maritime history and economy.  Its location on the over 40-feet-deep Hampton Roads shipping channel and the presence of both the CSX and Norfolk Southern Railroads allows Portsmouth to support national and international port commerce activities and the military presence in the region. 

Portsmouth derives its governing authority from a charter granted by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The City's governing body is the City Council, which formulates policies for the administration of the City. The City's charter provides for a Council-Manager form of government.

City of Portsmouth

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB Under general supervision, performs general duties of law enforcement including enforcing federal, state, and local laws, as well as working to protect the lives, property, and rights of the citizen. Reports to the Sergeant. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Patrols an assigned area of the city; monitors radio calls; inspects troublesome areas and checks security of business establishments; answers complaint calls and assists in investigating crimes and disturbances; and advises citizens of proper steps in crime prevention.

Investigates crimes committed; makes preliminary investigations and interrogates suspects and witnesses; secures and executes arrest and search warrants;...

Police Officer Trainee

Job description