The Process of Accreditation involves the review of 437 standards that are approved by the Commission . The Township of Derry Police Department began the accreditation self-assessment process in 1994. Over the next three years, the Police Department reviewed and upgraded nearly every existing policy for compliance with the Commission's standards. It was only after this process was completed that the Agency was eligible to enjoy the Benefits of Accreditation .
Accreditation is an integral part in the agency s pursuit of excellence.
The Commission The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. was founded in 1979 to promote excellence, efficiency, and professionalism throughout our nation's law enforcement standards and administers a voluntary accreditation program Through accreditation, law enforcement agencies at the state, county, municipal, or local level gain objective testimony that they meet professional criteria. The 21-member Commission reflects broad representation of state, county, and local law enforcement executives, including police chiefs and sheriffs from departments of varying sizes. The Commission also includes representatives from the public and private sectors, such as state and local government officials, labor, academia and the judiciary. Executive members of these four groups supervise about 80 percent of the law enforcement officers in the United States. Fully operational in October 1983, the Commission conducts its activities with fees paid by agencies applying for accreditation and encourages financial assistance from foundations and corporations to help defray part of these fees.