Surprise Police Chief Benny Piña announced that the Surprise Police Department has once again successfully completed a multi-year process designed to recognize professionalism in law enforcement through achievement of national accredited status with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

The Surprise Police Department received its initial accreditation in 2007 and received four subsequent reaccreditations in 2010, 2013, 2016 and 2020. At a conference on Nov. 16 in Jacksonville, Florida, the department was awarded its sixth national accreditation from CALEA.

Agencies receive their accreditation awards after participating in a four-year process that involves commitment of personnel and other resources.

During this period, all aspects of the agency’s policies, procedures, management, operations and support services undergo a comprehensive examination. Each agency conducts a detailed self-assessment and participates in four annual reviews and an on-site assessment by a team of outside CALEA assessors composed of experienced law enforcement professionals.

Additionally, agencies notify their local community of the reaccreditation process to offer community members an opportunity to provide their comments and observations.

The CALEA accreditation process has proven to be of great benefit to both the agency and the community. It requires that the agency conform to procedures that are consistent with internationally recognized, progressive law enforcement standards.

This is the foundation for professional, competent, responsible, and ethical service to the public. Accreditation is a key component in any law enforcement agency’s ability to perform in the present and plan for the future, and it has proven to be an effective and innovative management model.