"The qualities of a good prosecutor are as elusive and as impossible to define as those which mark a gentleman. And those who need to be told would not understand it anyway. A sensitiveness to fair play and sportsmanship is perhaps the best protection against the abuse of power, and the citizen's safety lies in the prosecutor who tempers zeal with human kindness, who seeks truth and not victims, who serves the law and not factional purposes, and who approaches his task with humility".  - Justice R. H. Jackson

Though written many years ago, these words of Justice Jackson embody ideals which I believe should govern my service as your Commonwealth's Attorney. Historically, the concerns of the criminal justice system have focused on the accused, while the needs of crime victims and witnesses received only minimal attention. Justice, however, belongs to all citizens, and I believe we have made great strides in recent years to relieve the inequity of this situation.

The successful prosecution of crime in Alexandria is impossible without the support, assistance and cooperation of our citizens. In our mutual endeavor to make Alexandria a safer place in which to live and work, I ask for your cooperation and assistance, and promise to do all I can to ensure that the ends of justice are served. Thank you.

- Bryan L. Porter, Commonwealth's Attorney

The Commonwealth’s Attorney is the chief prosecutor for the City of Alexandria and is responsible for holding individuals accountable for criminal offenses while working to promote safety, fairness, and justice for the entire community. The office also provides legal guidance to the Alexandria Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office on criminal matters. Bryan Porter has served as Commonwealth’s Attorney since January 2014 and has been a career prosecutor since 2001. Under his leadership, the office has grown to include a diverse team of 20 prosecutors, 14 administrative professionals, 7 victim services professionals, 3 law clerks, and a dedicated Alexandria Police Department liaison.

In addition to prosecuting cases, the office is deeply engaged in the community and collaborates with city agencies, residents, and community partners to address the root causes of crime and improve public safety. The office actively participates in citywide initiatives such as the Youth Policy Commission, the Economic Opportunities Commission, the Citywide Code Compliance Task Force, and the Domestic Violence Intervention Project. These partnerships support prevention, early intervention, and coordinated responses to community needs.

Victim-witness advocates in the office provide systems-based, non-confidential support to victims and survivors of crime, helping them understand the justice process and connect with services and resources. Advocates work closely with community-based organizations and regularly participate in outreach events, trainings, and public education efforts to increase awareness of victim services and ensure community members know where to turn for help. Through these efforts, the office strives to build trust, promote access to justice, and strengthen relationships with the Alexandria community.

  Prosecutors are assigned cases according to specialized areas of law. Each attorney works with a dedicated victim-witness advocate and paralegal, and remains on call when needed to collaborate with law enforcement in developing cases for prosecution.

Prosecutors and Their Assignments 

If you are a witness and need to confirm whether your court appearance is required, please call after 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled hearing.

 Case Updates