Lauren Edwards

Lauren Edwards serves as Assistant Chief of Police with the Henrico County Police Division in Mechanicsville, Virginia, bringing 23 years of law enforcement experience to her role. She began her professional career as a paralegal before entering law enforcement and earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2002. Throughout her career, Lauren has held a diverse range of positions, including midnight shift officer, recruiting officer, training coordinator, narcotics and organized crime investigator, sergeant in internal affairs and patrol operations, and lieutenant serving as an executive officer and public information officer. As a captain, she oversaw personnel, training, and criminal investigations before advancing to assistant chief. She earned a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management from the University of Richmond in 2007 and has further strengthened her leadership expertise through programs including the Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course, the Police Executive Research Forum school at Boston University, the Leadership Development Program, and Leadership Henrico. Beyond her responsibilities within law enforcement, Lauren is committed to leadership development, mentorship, and empowering women in public safety. She is the Founder of Lady Cop Lauren, through which she provides public speaking, workshops, leadership development training, and one-on-one mentoring designed to help women in law enforcement advance professionally and lead with confidence. She also serves as a course creator and instructor with the Southern Police Institute. Lauren maintains professional affiliations with organizations including the Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Chiefs of Police, Police Executive Research Forum, Mid-Atlantic Association of Women in Law Enforcement, and National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives. Her professional interests center on leadership development, organizational effectiveness, training, mentorship, and helps the advancement of women in law enforcement. Community service is also an important part of Lauren's life. She supports organizations and fundraising initiatives including Special Olympics, and helps organize Henrico's annual Blaze and Badge camp for middle school girls, and she has previously been involved with the Junior League. She also volunteers with causes supporting children and animal welfare. Lauren credits her mother with instilling the strong work ethic and ethical foundation that have guided her throughout her career. Grounded in faith, integrity, transparency, and treating people with authenticity and respect, she strives to create a positive impact through both her leadership in law enforcement and her commitment to developing and encouraging others.