CPD receives 4th re-accreditation award

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Police Department (CPD) will start a new four-year process of accreditation after receiving its fourth award from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

CPD has been an accredited agency with CALEA since 2014. CALEA, known as “the gold standard in public safety,” offers best practices and standards for law enforcement agencies.

As part of a continuous drive for the best police service to the community, CALEA accreditation provides a framework for best practices and ensures they are carried out.

Every year, CPD files reports and reviews with CALEA, and every 4 years, an assessor spends several days at the department conducting interviews and ensuring policies are followed. CALEA commissioners awarded final approval to CPD on Saturday, March 14.

Only about 5% of law enforcement agencies in the U.S. are accredited. And those accredited agencies incur about 51% fewer liability claims.

“I am proud of the work our officers and staff do every day and believe they demonstrate the highest level of professionalism. CALEA accreditation is the proof that they do,” Deputy Chief Matt Martindale said. “Credit also goes to Sue Lowry, our accreditation manager. We couldn’t keep the process going without her.”