[Archived] Alexandria Police, Accreditation Assessors Seek Public Comment

ALEXANDRIA POLICE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE
2003 MILL ROAD
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22314-4658
703-838-4636

MEDIA ADVISORY
March 20, 2007

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 24, and will remain on-site through Wednesday, March 28, 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 21 years ago, the Alexandria Police Department complies with the applicable professional standards mandated by CALEA. "National accreditation is highly prized since it represents certification and recognition by independent law enforcement professionals," Chief David P. Baker 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 26, at 7:00 p.m., at City Hall, Room 2410, located at 301 King Street 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 26, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., at 703-838-4598.

Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangements to participate in the public meeting may call the Planning and Accreditation Unit at 703-838-6310 or 703-838-4896 (TTY/TDD). Notice of 48 hours is requested so that proper arrangements may be made.

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

The assessment team is composed of law enforcement executives from similar, out-of-state agencies. Alexandria's assessors are:

Team Leader: Robert B. Geis (Chief, retired), Dublin (Ohio) Division of Police

Team Members: Lieutenant Greg N. Jones, Lexington (Kentucky) Division of Police, and Lieutenant John B. Tucker, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division

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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