Virginia Code Title 52. Police (State) § 52-9.1:1. Retired and former law-enforcement officers; retention of badge

A. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, on and after July 1, 1978, every State police officer shall upon retirement be awarded his badge or other insignia of his office for permanent keeping; provided, however, the Superintendent of State Police, prior to tendering such badge or insignia, shall have the same mounted in such a manner that it will be impossible for anyone to display such badge or insignia upon his person.

B. Upon request of a former law-enforcement officer with at least 10 years of service who has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, as defined in § 65.2-107, by a mental health professional, as defined in § 65.2-107, or who is disabled, such individual shall be awarded his badge or other insignia of his office in accordance with the procedures established under subsection A; however, the mounted badge or insignia shall include an indication that the individual honorably served. The Superintendent of State Police may deny, for cause, any request made under this subsection, provided that it gives a written explanation to the requester of the grounds for denial. Any individual awarded a badge or insignia under this subsection shall be ineligible to receive a badge or insignia pursuant to subsection A. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any individual who was decertified pursuant to § 15.2-1707.