Linda Toney
Public Safety and Leadership Consultant
Linda Toney is a dedicated public safety leader who served as a law enforcement professional in Virginia for more than 29 years. Through her commitment, integrity, and perseverance, she broke barriers by becoming the first female Lieutenant Colonel in the history of the Henrico County Police Division.
Linda earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University and is widely recognized as an effective communicator with an approachable and collaborative leadership style. Throughout her career, she consistently demonstrated professionalism, accountability, and compassion in service to her community.
During her tenure with the Henrico County Police Division, Linda held numerous executive and command-level positions, including Interim Police Chief, Assistant Chief of Support Operations, Deputy Chief of Support Services, Commanding Officer of Criminal Investigations, Commanding Officer of Community Services, and Public Information Officer.
Highly skilled in building internal and external partnerships, Linda served at every level within Henrico Police School Services, with a strong focus on school safety. She has been a dedicated advocate for inclusivity, equality, and diversity, serving as the Division’s LGBTQ liaison, mentoring female recruits, and spearheading the department’s faith-based coalition.
Linda’s extensive leadership training includes graduation from the Professional Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond, the Administrative Officers Management Program at North Carolina State University, the Senior Management Institute for Police at Boston University, FBI-LEEDA’s Trilogy program, and the Institute for Leadership in Changing Times at Virginia Tech. She also achieved the highest level in the Henrico County Leadership Development Program.
After retiring from law enforcement in 2021, Linda continued her commitment to public service by obtaining instructor certification in North Carolina, allowing her to share leadership experiences with criminal justice professionals. She also remains actively engaged in mentoring youth and currently serves as a substitute teacher at an all-girls public charter school.
A strong advocate for work-life balance, self-awareness, and perseverance, Linda continues to inspire future leaders through her dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement.
Leadership & Training
- Professional Executive Leadership School – University of Richmond
- Administrative Officers Management Program – NC State University
- Senior Management Institute for Police – Boston University
- FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Program
- Institute for Leadership in Changing Times – Virginia Tech
- Henrico County Leadership Development Program (Highest Level)