Accreditation Program
The Normal Police Department was accredited by CALEA in July 1994. It was re-accredited in 1999, 2002, 2005 and 2008.
What is CALEA?
CALEA is the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.
What is the purpose of CALEA?
The Commission was formed in 1979 to establish a body of standards designed to:
- Increase law enforcement agency capabilities to prevent and control crime
- Increase agency effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of law enforcement services.
- Increase cooperation and coordination with other law enforcement agencies and with other agencies of the criminal justice system.
- Increase citizen and employee confidence in the goals, objectives, policies, and practices of the agency.
The Benefits of Accreditation
Controlled liability insurance costs - Accredited status makes it easier for agencies to purchase police liability insurance; allows agencies to increase the limit of their insurance coverage more easily; and, in many cases, results in lower premiums.
Stronger defense against lawsuits and citizen complaints - Accredited agencies are better able to defend themselves against lawsuits and citizen complaints. Many agencies report a decline in legal actions against them once they become accredited.
Greater accountability with the agency - Accreditation standards give the Chief Executive Officer a proven management system of written directives, sound training, clearly defined lines of authority, and routine reports that support decision-making and resource allocation.
Staunch support from government officials - Accreditation provides objective evidence of an agency's commitment to excellence in leadership, resource management, and service-delivery. Thus, government officials are more confident in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and meet community needs.
Increased community advocacy - Accreditation embodies the precepts of community-oriented policing. It creates a forum in which police and citizens work together to prevent and control crime. This partnership helps citizens understand the challenges confronting law enforcement and gives law enforcement clear direction about community expectations.
Improved employee morale - Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence. It requires written directives and training to inform employees about policies and practices; facilities and equipment to ensure employees safety; and processes to safeguard employees' rights. Employees take pride in their department, knowing it represents the very best in law enforcement.
Normal Police Department's Accreditation staff is diligently working to maintain accredited status. Directives are reviewed and updated regularly. Proofs of compliance for applicable standards are developed and maintained. Annual reports are submitted to CALEA attesting to continued compliance and reporting changes or difficulties experienced during the year, including actions taken to resolve noncompliance.
For more information about CALEA, visit their website.
Questions about Normal Police Department's Accreditation? Contact Pat Barnes, Normal Police Department.