Blacksburg Chief of Police John Clair
BLACKSBURG – Chief of Police for the Town of Blacksburg, John Clair, has been selected as the 2025-2026 President of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police (VACP).
Formed in 1926, the VACP promotes professional development for Virginia law enforcement leaders, fosters cooperation among agencies, advances officer training and standards, and upholds respect for law and order statewide.
“I’m honored and more so humbled to serve as the President of the VACP in its centennial year,” said Clair. “I look forward to elevating the concerns of the police officers from across the Commonwealth and advocating for accountable and professional policing in our communities.”
Clair was appointed Blacksburg’s Chief of Police in May of 2025 and currently leads the town’s nationally accredited department of 70 sworn officers and 12 civilian staff. Clair served as Chief of Police in Marion, Virginia, and Quantico, Virginia prior to his tenure in Blacksburg. He also previously worked as an officer with the Prince William County and Dumfries Police Departments and held protective service roles with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of State. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Clair served as a Military Police Sergeant in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).
“Chief Clair’s appointment as President of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police reflects his dedication to professional excellence, community engagement, and innovative policing strategies,” says Blacksburg Town Manager Marc Verniel. “The Town of Blacksburg is proud to support his service in this statewide leadership role and to see his expertise and leadership recognized by his peers throughout Virginia law enforcement.”
Clair is a certified Law Enforcement Chief Executive Officer through the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police and served most recently as the organization’s first Vice President. He has authored numerous articles on community policing, is an expert advisor for various professional organizations, and recently served as a guest instructor at the Appalachian School of Law, where he lectured on crisis communications and negotiations.
Staff report
