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Accreditation
The Londonderry Police Department prides itself in being a CALEA-accredited department since November 19, 2021. Approximately 4% of police departments in the United States are CALEA-accredited. Out of around 18,000 law enforcement agencies, only about 793 have achieved CALEA accreditation. It's quite a rigorous process, but those who achieve it are recognized for maintaining high standards of professionalism and accountability.
The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) is an independent credentialing authority that evaluates public safety agencies against a set of professional standards. CALEA was established in 1979 by major law enforcement associations to improve law enforcement service delivery and recognize professional achievements.
Key Aspects of CALEA Accreditation:
1. Comprehensive Standards: Agencies must meet a comprehensive set of standards that cover various aspects of law enforcement operations, including written directives, performance reports, and community relations.
2. Self-Assessment: Agencies conduct a thorough self-assessment to ensure they meet CALEA's standards.
3. External Review: An independent team of experts reviews the agency's self-assessment and conducts site visits to verify compliance.
4. Continuous Improvement: Accredited agencies are required to undergo periodic reviews and continuous improvement efforts to maintain their accreditation status.
CALEA offers accreditation programs for law enforcement agencies, public safety communications, and public safety dispatch centers. The goal is to promote excellence in public safety services and ensure agencies operate at the highest standards.