Chief of Police

Chief Amanda R. Behan

Chief Amanda R. Behan began her law enforcement career with the Winchester Police Department in 2001. In her previous role as the Deputy Chief of Police for Operations, she oversaw the Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, Crime Analysis Program, and other specialized Department functions that include the School Resource Officers, Special Weapons and Tactics Team, and the K9 program.

Before taking her first leadership role in 2007 as a Sergeant, Behan's assignments included being a patrol officer and a detective for the Northwest Regional Drug Task Force and General Investigations Unit. After being promoted to Lieutenant, she served in the Administration Division, Patrol Division, and Office of Professional Standards, where she focused on a significant expansion of community outreach and the re-development of Department policies.

In 2020, she was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division, where she commanded General Investigations, Special Investigations, and Crime Analysis Program. During this time, she acquired the Department's first therapy canine for the Special Victims program.

Chief Behan is a dedicated wife and mother to two children. She enjoys being a mentor in both her professional and personal lives and serves as a volunteer sports coach. Chief Behan's education includes an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Business Management, and a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership. She also holds a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion in Human Resource Management.

Deputy Chief Josh Berry

Prior to his employment with the WPD, Deputy Chief Berry served as the Chief of Operations for Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office, where he was also the Regional SWAT Commander. As the Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief Berry supervised the patrol division, court security, K-9 unit, and school resource officers. He has experience in budgeting, grant writing, and procurement processes.

Deputy Chief Berry has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, a Master’s degree from Liberty University in Criminal Justice & Public Administration, and has successfully completed numerous leadership trainings. He has a passion for law enforcement preparedness and is looking forward to supporting the men and women of the WPD and being an advocate for the Winchester community. He is also a proud husband and father.

Deputy Chief Berry was selected following a background, polygraph, and two panel interviews which included community and business members and representation from City of Winchester departments and regional law enforcement agencies. Chief Behan describes Deputy Chief Berry as loyal, driven, and dedicated. “Because of these qualities and his strong value system, Deputy Chief Berry will serve the community and our staff with the highest level of integrity and commitment,” said Chief Behan, “Josh will accomplish great things at the WPD.