LEONARDTOWN, MD – The St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office (SMCSO) is currently undergoing a rigorous evaluation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), aiming to achieve a prestigious accreditation that recognizes excellence in public safety. Sheriff Steve Hall disclosed that a site-based assessor from CALEA® is meticulously reviewing the SMCSO's policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services.
This voluntary accreditation process seeks to verify that the SMCSO adheres to the commission's state-of-the-art standards. Sheriff Hall emphasized that it represents a commitment to professional excellence in law enforcement. The accreditation is highly regarded within the public safety community and marks quality and professional achievement.
As part of the assessment, CALEA® is inviting input from agency personnel and community members. Feedback can be provided online at the designated CALEA® portal (https://cimrs2.calea.org/316). This opportunity allows both staff and residents to contribute to the evaluation process, ensuring a comprehensive review of the sheriff's office's practices and policies.
For individuals unable to access the online portal, comments can also be submitted directly to CALEA® via mail at 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainesville, VA, 20155, or through email at calea@calea.org. This alternative ensures that all voices can be heard, and any concerns or endorsements are considered during the assessment.
The standards for accreditation are extensive, with the SMCSO required to meet 183 distinct criteria. These standards cover a wide range of law enforcement operational, managerial, and service aspects, demonstrating the evaluation process's depth and breadth. Jodi Irwin, Accreditation Manager for the SMCSO, can provide copies of these standards to interested parties, further fostering transparency and engagement with the community.
Accredited status is not a one-time event but a continuous commitment to excellence and accountability. Accredited agencies must submit regular reports and undergo annual reviews over the four-year accreditation period. This ongoing process ensures accredited law enforcement agencies remain aligned with the best practices and standards in public safety.
For more information about the accreditation process, or to inquire further about the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., interested individuals can contact CALEA® directly by mail, phone (703-352-4225), or email (calea@calea.org). This process underscores the SMCSO's dedication to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in serving the St. Mary's County community.
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