Her Story
About Beatriz
Beatriz Riggle is a dedicated police officer serving with the City of Alexandria, where she works as a beat officer committed to protecting and building meaningful relationships within her community. With five years of experience in law enforcement, she approaches public service with a strong belief in fairness, respect, and treating every individual with dignity. In addition to her patrol responsibilities, Beatriz serves as the Executive Vice President of the SSPBA Alexandria Chapter, representing fellow officers and contributing to stronger communication, advocacy, and leadership within the department. In her PBA role, she negotiated for the second three-year agreement of collective bargaining that went into effect July 1, 2026. Additionally, Beatriz facilitates team building classes for Alexandria City's police department twice a year, for their new police officers who successfully complete Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy. Beatriz’s diverse educational and professional background has shaped her ability to connect with people from many different walks of life. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from The Catholic University of America, with minors in Theology, Studio Art, and Philosophy, giving her a multidisciplinary perspective on human behavior, ethics, culture, and communication. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she uses her language skills to bridge gaps and better serve Alexandria’s diverse population. Prior to joining law enforcement, Beatriz worked with community-focused organizations. She started with Public Allies and later joined The Platform of Hope in Washington, D.C., where she supported families, coordinated programs, and strengthened her passion for community engagement. Beyond the badge, Beatriz is passionate about continuous growth, service, and creating positive change. She believes that trust is built through everyday interactions—whether responding to calls, engaging with residents, or participating in community outreach efforts. As a multiracial woman in law enforcement, she understands the importance of representation and strives to ensure people feel seen, heard, and respected. Beatriz encourages women pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields to believe in themselves, embrace opportunities, and recognize that growth comes from taking action. Through her leadership, compassion, and commitment to public service, she continues to make a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the community she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Beatriz
01What do you attribute your success to?
I allow myself to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Especially when I was confirmed to have a memory disability when I was a teenager. I had to overcome the disadvantage and develop skills that would not only allow me keep up with others, but stay competitive. I believe growth is most successful through learning the many ways something does not work in order to find ways that do. A close friend once shared "Hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard," and I enjoy thinking that it is a rallying cry to not give up on myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
To not limit yourself. As women we think that we're underqualified for a position when we're actually overqualified. I have been reminded not to minimize myself or my worth. If I could share that advise and add to it, I would say: you were able to make it to where you are today, then you have the ability to go much further than the limits placed by others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
People will try to put you in a box, weather or not it is accurate. Prove them wrong. We are 21st century women and we will continue to build better paths, ladders, stairs, etc. for those who come after us.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Being a police officer in the first responder world, as a woman, we are faced with the challenge of representation. Adding the layer of being a multiracial, is a subculture within itself. With that acknowledgement, one of the many advantages of being a multiracial and multicultural woman in the field, I am afforded the opportunity to connect and relate to the communities I serve.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Everyone is treated respectfully, no matter the walks of life. Whether I am flagged down to have a conversation about where to eat, or a question regarding an issue, I want to make sure that the individual I'm speaking with feels comfortable and seen.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.