ACCREDITATION

On Saturday, March 19, 2005, the Modesto Police Department joined a very special group of California law enforcement agencies that have become accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

The award, which was presented to Police Chief Roy Wasden at the March 2005 CALEA Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, means that the Modesto Police Department becomes the 13^th law enforcement agency in California to be accredited by CALEA.

The accreditation process involves a comprehensive self-assessment that includes 446 standards.  The standards address six major law enforcement areas:  (1) role, responsibilities, and relationships with other agencies; (2) organization, management, and administration; (3) personnel administrations; (4) law enforcement operations, operational support and traffic law enforcement; (5) prisoner and court-related services; and (6) auxiliary and technical services.

After undergoing self-assessment, an on-site assessment is completed by a team of trained independent assessors.  These CALEA assessors verify the department’s compliance with standards by checking its proofs and interviewing operations and management personnel.  A public hearing is also held to elicit citizens’ comments.

The accreditation period is for three years.  During this time, the Modesto Police Department must submit annual reports that document continuing compliance with applicable standards.  Reaccreditation occurs at the end of the three years, pending another successful on-site assessment and hearing before the Commission.

Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence.  Employees of the Modesto Police Department take pride in their police service, knowing it represents the very best in law enforcement.

“Attaining accreditation is a major accomplishment for the department and maintaining this standard is of the utmost importance,” said Modesto Police Chief Roy Wasden. 

If you would like additional information regarding the National Law Enforcement Accreditation Program contact the Department’s Accreditation Manager, Linda Kaus at 572-9692 or email KausL@ModestoPD.Com.  You can also visit CALEA’s website at www.calea.org.