Freedom of Information (FOIA)
What is a FOIA?
FOIA stands for the Freedom of Information Act. It is a federal law that provides individuals with the right to access information from the federal government. Under the FOIA, anyone can request access to federal agency records, with some exceptions for sensitive or classified information. The law promotes transparency and accountability in government by allowing the public to request and receive information about the operations and activities of federal agencies. Additionally, many states have their own versions of the FOIA that apply to state and local government agencies, providing similar access to public records.
The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) guarantees citizens of Virginia and certain representatives of the media access to public records held by the Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office. Public records are documents possessed by the County and that are used in the transaction of public business.
To Request a FOIA
A FOIA request can be made in person, via email or fax, over the phone, or through a written request.
Brief overview of FOIA law
VA Residents only
Associated fee
5 business days
Putting your request in writing is appreciated and helps ensure that you receive an accurate response.
The request must be for existing records or documents. If you request information rather than records, we will respond with documents that contain that information, but will not create documents that do not already exist.
FOIA Officer: Sheriff Carter
