‘Best career decision’: Portsmouth Police captain retires after three decades

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – After 31 years with Portsmouth Police, Capt. Althea Floriano is set to retire.

“I wanted to be a policeman since I was little,” Floriano said. “I was offered positions in several other cities, but I chose Portsmouth. It’s the best career decision I’ve ever made!

She first joined the service in January 1991 as a uniformed patroller. She then became a Field Training Officer before moving to the Criminal Investigations Division to become one of Portsmouth’s first School Resource Officers.

Floriano later became the 2nd female officer in department history to complete the K9 training program, along with her four-legged partner Morgi.

She has held supervisory positions in various units and divisions including Uniformed Patrol, Criminal Investigations, General Manager, Training Division, Administrative Services, Community Services, Logistics Office and Special Investigations. .

Officials believe she may hold the record for the longest sworn female career in Portsmouth Police history.

“Thank you for 31 wonderful years,” she added. vs