Archived News Release: July 31, 2018 - On Saturday, July 28, 2018, the Ann Arbor Police Department (AAPD) went before The Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Review Board for the final step in a three-year process. The department is now pleased to share the successful conclusion, with AAPD being awarded accreditation.
The AAPD is now one of 13 law enforcement agencies in Michigan (out of 571) to obtain CALEA certification. Less than 4 percent of law enforcement agencies in the United States are accredited.
The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. was created in 1979 as a credentialing authority through the joint efforts of law enforcement's major executive associations: the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Sheriff's Association, The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the Police Executive Research Forum.
“This was a long and demanding process, but worth it. It's one more way to reassure our residents that their police department is committed to earning and maintaining their trust; that we are always striving to achieve the highest of standards," said AAPD Interim Chief Robert Pfannes. “I'm really proud of our officers for this achievement."
The purpose of CALEA's Accreditation Programs is to improve the delivery of public safety services, primarily by: maintaining a body of standards, developed by public safety practitioners, covering a wide range of up-to-date public safety initiatives; establishing and administering an accreditation process; and recognizing professional excellence.
Specifically, CALEA's goals are to:
- Strengthen crime prevention and control capabilities;
- Formalize essential management procedures;
- Establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices;
- Improve service delivery;
- Solidify interagency cooperation and coordination;
- Increase community and staff confidence in the agency;
- Facilitate an agency's pursuit of professional excellence.
Maintaining accreditation is an ongoing process that requires continuous CALEA review.
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