Biography

Hardworking, compassionate, driven, and conscientious, Linda N. Toney served as a law enforcement professional in Virginia for over 29 years. She broke the glass ceiling becoming the first female Lieutenant Colonel in the history of the Henrico County Police Division.

Linda obtained a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is an effective communicator with an approachable demeanor, proven during her tenure with the Henrico County Police Division. Linda achieved and surpassed goals as: 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.

Skilled in developing partnerships internally and externally, Linda served at every level within Henrico Police School Services, focusing her expertise on school safety. Proudly, she is experienced in promoting and fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity, serving as the LGBTQ liaison, and spearheading the Police Division’s faith-based coalition.

Linda’s leadership training includes being a graduate of PELS, the Professional Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond; 62nd AOMP, Administrative Officers Management Program at North Carolina State University; SMIP, the Senior Management Institute for Police at Boston University; FBI LEEDA Trilogy; the Institute for Leadership in Changing Times at Virginia Tech; and she achieved Level V in the Henrico County Leadership Development Program.

Still a public servant at heart, after retiring from law enforcement in 2021, Linda obtained instructor status in North Carolina to continue sharing leadership experiences with criminal justice personnel. In addition, efforts to mentor and cultivate positive relationships with youth endure, as she is a substitute teacher at an all-girls public charter school.

Education

Bachelor of Science (B.S.),Criminal Justice, Virginia Commonwealth University

Publications

“Uncuffed Voices” Anthology, contributing author