Township police starting accreditation process

By Kevin Elliott

Bloomfield Township police are encouraging the public to comment on the police department’s performance or other concerns on or before Monday, December 12, as the law enforcement agency undergoes its accreditation process with the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission.

Accreditation is a voluntary process that is valid for three years. During that period, accredited agencies must submit annual reports attesting to compliance of specific standards created by the commission. The commission is the accreditation agency for Michigan. Assessment for accreditation includes on-site visits to ensure best practices standards are in place and being met.

“Verification by the team that the Bloomfield Township Police Department meets the Michigan Law Enforcement Commission’s 'best practice' standards are part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” said Bloomfield Township Police Chief James Gallagher.

Gallagher said the department must meet 105 standards to achieve accredited status. He said the process results in greater accountability within the department; reduced risk and liability exposure; stronger defense against civil lawsuits; increased community advocacy; and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs.

As part of the assessment, employees and members of the public are invited to provide comments to the assessment team. They may do so by telephone or email. Calls to 248.723.3580 may be made on Monday, Dec. 12, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Email comments may be sent to Chief Gallagher at jgallagher@bloomfieldtwp.org via email. Telephone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency’s ability to meet the standards for accreditation.

The state assessment team is composed of law enforcement professionals from similar agencies in Michigan. Assessors review written materials, interview agency members, visit offices and other places where compliance with standards can be observed.

Written comments may also be sent to the accreditation program manager at nrossow@michiganpolicechiefs.org, or by writing the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 3474 Alaledon Pkwy, Suite 600, Okemos, MI, 48864.