Newton Police Department to Be Assessed on Performance

NEWTON, MA – A team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies will visit the Newton Police Department later this month to examine its policies and procedures, management, operations and support services.

Newton police are participating in the voluntary program to maintain Accreditation – a recognition of law enforcement professional excellence. The assessors will arrive on Nov. 28 and spend days conducting an on-site examination of the department.

During this time, agency employees and community members are invited to provide feedback at a public information session on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at the Newton Police Department Community Room in West Newton.

Those unable to attend the meeting may offer comments directly to the assessors by calling 617-796-3652 on Nov. 30 from 1 to 3 p.m. All comments are limited to a maximum of 10 minutes and must address the department's ability to comply with CALEA standards. To request a copy of the standards or ask questions related to accreditation, call Capt. Dennis P. Berube, Accreditation Manager at 617-796-2107.

Anyone wishing to submit written comments may send them to The Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320 Gainesville, Virginia, 22030-2215.

The Assessment Team is comprised of two out-of-state law enforcement professionals, Chief Glen Allen of the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and Chief Tim Potts of University of Mississippi. The assessors will review written materials, interview individuals, observe department operations and visit relevant offices to ensure the Newton Police Department is complying with all 484 standards required to maintain accredited status.

Upon completion of the on-site review, a written report will be submitted to the commission to determine if continued accredited status will be granted. Accreditation lasts for three years, during which the agency must submit annual reports to the Commission and continue to meet all applicable standards.

For more information, write the commission at 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320 Gainesville, Virginia 20155 or call (703) 352-4225.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user christopdesoto via Creative Commons