Virginia § 52-8.3 - Disclosure of criminal investigative records and reports; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 52-8.3 — Disclosure of criminal investigative records and reports; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 52-8.3. Disclosure of criminal investigative records and reports; penalty
Any person employed by a law-enforcement agency or other governmental agency within the Commonwealth who has or has had access in an official capacity to an official written record or report submitted in confidence to the Department of State Police relating to an ongoing criminal investigation, and who uses or knowingly permits another to use such record or report for any purpose not consistent with the record exclusions permitted in the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (§ 2.2-3700 et seq.), or other provision of state law, shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.
The provisions of this section shall not be construed to impede or prohibit full access to information concerning the existence of any criminal investigation or to other verbal disclosures permitted by state police operating procedures.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 52-8.3
What does Code of Virginia § 52-8.3 cover?
Section 52-8.3 ("Disclosure of criminal investigative records and reports; penalty") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 52-8.3?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 52-8.3" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 52-8.3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.