Madison Police Accreditation Review Set For May 26

MADISON, NJ - A team of assessors from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police will arrive May 26, to conduct a comprehensive review of the Madison Police Department's policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services, Chief John R. Miscia announced Sunday.

The assessment is part of a voluntary accreditation process administered by NJSACOP's Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, which Chief Miscia described as "a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence."

Agency employees and members of the public are invited to submit comments to the assessment team by phone or email. Telephone comments may be made by calling (973) 408-8787 on Wednesday, May 27, between 10 and 11 a.m. Calls are limited to five minutes and must address the department's ability to comply with NJSACOP standards.

Email comments may be sent to Madison Police Capt. Joseph Longo at LongoJ@rosenet.org. For information about the standards, contact Longo at (973) 593-3008.

Written comments may also be emailed to NJSACOP Accreditation Program Director Harry J. Delgado at hdelgado@njsacop.org, or mailed to the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 751 Route 73 North, Suite 12, Marlton, NJ 08053.

Delgado said assessors are law enforcement practitioners from comparable New Jersey agencies who "will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed." Their findings will be reported to the full commission, which will determine whether to grant accredited status.

Chief Miscia said accreditation "results in greater accountability within the agency, 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."

Accreditation, if granted, is valid for three years. The department must submit annual compliance reports throughout that period.

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