The City of Charlevoix Police Department will host a team of assessors from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC) on Tuesday, May 26.
According to a release from Chief Jill McDonnell, the assessors will be examining all aspects of the department’s policies and procedures, management, operations and support services as part of the accreditation process.
“Verification by the team that the City of Charlevoix Police Department meets the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission’s ‘best practice’ standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” McDonnell said in a statement.
As part of the on-site visit, both employees and members of the public are invited to provide comments to the assessors. Those interested should call 231-574-7187 on May 26 between 10 a.m. and noon. Comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the commission’s standards.
Those who prefer to submit written comments can email the Accreditation Program manager at msilverthorn@michiganpolicechiefs.org or write the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Pkwy, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864.
In order to achieve accreditation, the department must comply with 130 standards.
“Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs,” said McDonnell.
Accreditation is valid for three years, during which the agency must submit annual reports about their continued compliance.
“The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar Michigan law enforcement agencies,” said Matt Silverthorn, accreditation program director for the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, in the release. “The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed. Once the assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full commission, which will then decide if the agency is to be granted accredited status.”
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Charlevoix Police Department seeks public input for accreditation process
Reporting by Jillian Fellows, The Petoskey News-Review / The Petoskey News-Review
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