The Alexandria Police Department (APD) hosted senior leaders from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Queensland Police Service (QPS) for an international exchange focused on leadership, ethics, and building public trust in policing. The meeting took place in Alexandria, Virginia, and included APD Chief Tarrick McGuire, members of the department’s Executive Command Staff, and the City’s Chief Human Resource Officer.
Assistant Commissioner Virginia Nelson of QPS is conducting a study titled “Crises of Trust in Policing Organizations, Leadership and Change.” Her research examines how law enforcement can foster ethical cultures and strengthen public confidence. As part of her Churchill Fellowship, she has visited agencies across the United States to learn about transparency, accountability, and community collaboration.
The Australian delegation chose to visit Alexandria to learn about APD’s efforts in improving public trust and implementing data-driven crime reduction strategies. They were interested in how APD aligns strategy, accountability, and communication to enhance both safety and community confidence.
Chief Tarrick McGuire said, “The Alexandria Police Department is proud to engage in thoughtful exchanges that contribute to learning and improvement across the profession. We appreciate the opportunity to share our journey and learn from others equally committed to integrity and public trust.”
Discussions during the exchange focused on internal culture, leadership accountability, and partnerships with communities. Assistant Commissioner Nelson leads the Ethical Standards Command within QPS and has over 34 years of experience. She expressed appreciation for APD’s openness: “Our profession demands a constant commitment to learning, because the challenges we face evolve every day. True policing excellence comes from embracing inclusivity — listening to every voice within our ranks and the communities we serve, and above all, we must hold ourselves accountable, so our integrity always matches the authority we’re entrusted with. Our exchange reinforced the importance of an ethical culture, transparency, and accountability in modern policing. The dialogue with Alexandria PD will be instrumental in shaping this study, and we’re grateful for their partnership and for the opportunity to learn from their journey while sharing.”
Commander Andrew Donoghoe of AFP also praised APD: “The Alexandria PD exemplifies the kind of leadership and community engagement that builds lasting trust. Strong global partnerships are the foundation of modern policing — no agency can keep communities safe alone. By working together across borders and holding both our officers and our leaders to the highest standards, we build the trust and integrity that true public safety depends on. The leadership and partnership shown by Alexandria is second to none. We are committed to continuing our work together to ensure our communities have the highest levels of service.”
APD regularly engages in peer-to-peer exchanges with law enforcement partners nationally and internationally as part of its commitment to identifying innovative practices and strengthening professional standards.
