Portsmouth Police Officer Charged for Brandishing Gun in Off-Duty Dispute

Complaint alleges officer directed racial slurs and pointed weapon at group in Norfolk parking garage

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:55am

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A Portsmouth police officer has been charged with brandishing a firearm after a woman filed a criminal complaint alleging he pointed his weapon at her and her friends during an off-duty dispute in a Norfolk parking garage. The complaint claims the officer, Brandon Davis, was driving by and directing racial slurs to the group before the confrontation escalated.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the conduct of law enforcement officers, even when off-duty, and the potential for escalation of tensions when firearms are involved in disputes between civilians. It also highlights the complexities around policing and community relations, especially regarding allegations of racial bias.

The details

According to the complaint filed by Ciara Kea-Bailey, the incident occurred on November 23 in a Waterside parking garage in Norfolk. Kea-Bailey claims that Davis, a 22-year veteran of the Portsmouth Police Department, was driving by and directing racial slurs at her and her group. This led to a verbal dispute, after which Kea-Bailey alleges Davis 'brandished his firearm' at them. The groups then got back into their vehicles and drove toward the garage's exit.

  • The incident occurred on November 23, 2025.
  • Kea-Bailey filed the criminal complaint with a Norfolk magistrate in late December 2025.
  • Davis was issued a summons to appear in court on February 10, 2026.

The players

Brandon Davis

A 22-year veteran of the Portsmouth Police Department who has been charged with brandishing a firearm during an off-duty dispute.

Ciara Kea-Bailey

The woman who filed a criminal complaint against Davis, alleging he pointed his weapon at her and her friends during a confrontation in a Norfolk parking garage.

Lorne Bailey

Kea-Bailey's 23-year-old brother, who was previously charged with firing more than 20 shots at Davis' truck after it left the parking garage.

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What they’re saying

“So we put our hands up and start walking to our vehicle.”

— Ciara Kea-Bailey

What’s next

The judge will decide on February 10 whether to allow Davis to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for continued scrutiny and accountability around the conduct of law enforcement officers, even when off-duty, to ensure public trust and prevent further escalation of tensions between police and the communities they serve.