Why Be Accredited?
| Verification of Excellence - Every 3 years the Scottsdale Police Department undergoes a rigorous onsite inspection by CALEA-trained law enforcement practitioners from around the nation. The assessment, lasting 3-4 days, puts the department under a microscope to verify its compliance with the CALEA standards. |
Greater accountability within the agency -
Accreditation standards give the Chief Executive Officer a proven management system of
written directives, sound training, clearly defined lines of authority, and routine
reports that support decision-making and resource allocation.
Increased Community Advocacy -
Accreditation embodies the precepts of community-oriented policing. It creates a forum in
which police and citizens work together to prevent and control challenges confronting law
enforcement and provides clear direction about community expectations thus providing
better public services.
Support from government officials -
Accreditation provides objective evidence of an agency's commitment to excellence in
leadership, resource management, and service-delivery. Thus, government officials are more
confident in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and meet community needs.
Controlled liability insurance costs -
Accredited status makes it easier for agencies to purchase police liability insurance;
allows agencies to increase the limit of their insurance coverage more easily; and, in
many cases, results in lower premiums.
Stronger defense against lawsuits and citizen complaints -
Accredited agencies are better able to defend themselves against lawsuits and citizen
complaints. Many agencies report a decline in legal actions against them, once they become
accredited.
Contact:
Will Davis
Planning, Research and Accreditation Manager
Phone: 480-312-1970
E-mail: willdavis@scottsdaleaz.gov