MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 24, 2004
1:00 P.M.
Alexandria Police, Accreditation Assessors Seek Public Comment
In preparation for the Alexandria Police Department's national re-accreditation, the assessment team is inviting public comment. A team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), will arrive on Saturday, March 27, and will remain on-site through Wednesday, March 31, to examine all aspects of the Alexandria Police Department's policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services.
One of the first agencies accredited in the country 18 years ago, the Alexandria Police Department complies with 445 professional standards. "National accreditation is highly prized since it represents certification and recognition by independent law enforcement professionals," Chief Samarra said.
As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and community members are encouraged to offer comments at a public information session on Monday, March 29, at 7:00 p.m., at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, North Lodge Room, located at 101 Callahan Drive in the City. If an individual is unable to attend the public information session, but wishes to provide comments, he or she may call the assessment team on Monday, March 29, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at (703) 519-3352.
Anyone wishing to offer written comments regarding the Department's ability to meet accreditation standards may write to:
CALEA
10302 Eaton Place, Suite 100
Fairfax, VA 22030-2201
(703) 352-4225
According to Deputy Chief David P. Baker who is overseeing the police department’s accreditation program, the assessment team is composed of law enforcement executives from similar, out-of-state agencies. Alexandria's assessors are:
Team Leader: Director Bill Howe, St. Louis County Police, Missouri
Team Members: Lieutenant Winnie Bailey, Huntsville Police, Alabama
Sergeant Martin Ring III, Columbia Police, South Carolina
The team will review written materials, conduct interviews, and visit offices where compliance can be witnessed. After reviewing the assessment, the Commission will determine if the Alexandria Police Department is to be re-accredited.
Accreditation is for three years, during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting continued compliance with standards under which it was initially accredited.
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