The Battle Creek Police Department invites the community to provide comments to a state accreditation team that will visit the department next week, as the department looks to renew its state accreditation.
BCPD first achieved full state accreditation from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police in 2019. It requires an annual report, and a department can renew every three years. A Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission assessment team will arrive to the BCPD on May 23 to examine policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.
Here’s how those interested can participate:
- Call 269-966-3368 – This will be available only next Tuesday, May 24, from 9:30-11 a.m. Phone comments are limited to five minutes.
- Email nrossow@michiganpolicechiefs.org – the Accreditation Program manager
- Write to Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 3474 Alaiedon Parkway, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864
See the standards online at michiganpolicechiefs.org. Navigate to Accreditation – Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Program – Accreditation Manuals – Standards Manual.
“Verification by the team that the Battle Creek Police Department meets the MLEAC’s best practice standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” said BCPD Chief Jim Blocker.
The BCPD must comply with 105 standards to keep its accreditation.
“Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increase community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently, and respond to community needs,” Blocker said.
In March 2019, the BCPD became the 16th Michigan department to achieve accreditation. Today, the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police website lists 42.
Original source can be found here.
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