Hanover Park police seeking accreditation

An assessment team from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. will arrive in Hanover Park on Aug. 14 to examine all aspects of the police department's policies and procedures, management, operations and support services.

This is part of a voluntary process by the police department to gain accreditation -- a prized recognition of professional excellence in law enforcement.

As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer comments at a public information session at 6 p.m. Aug. 16 in the Hanover Park Council Chambers, 2121 W. Lake St.

Resident also can make comments by phone, between 2-4 p.m. Aug. 16 at (630) 372-4435.

Telephone comments and appearances at the public information session are limited to five minutes and must address the agency's ability to comply with CALEA's standards. A copy of the standards is available at the Hanover Park Police Department. The local contact is Accreditation Manager Len Jaster, (630) 372-4400.

People also can offer written comments about the Hanover Park Police Department's ability to meet the standards for accreditation. Write to: Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainesville, VA 20155.

The police department has to comply with 464 standards in order to gain accredited status. By achieving accredited status, the department will be recognized nationally and internationally in the law enforcement community.

The assessment team is made up of law enforcement practitioners from similar but out-of-state agencies. Assessors will review written materials, interview individuals and visit officers and other places where compliance can be witnessed.

Once they complete their review, they report back to the Commission, which will then decide if the department is to be granted accredited status.

Accreditation is for three years, during which time the police department must submit annual reports attesting continued compliance with those standards under which it was initially accredited.

For details regarding CALEA, write the commission at the above address or call (800) 368-3757 or (703) 352-4225.