Princeton Police, 911 Center Face Accreditation Reviews This Month

PRINCETON, NJ - The Princeton Police Department and its Public Safety Communications Center will undergo separate accreditation reviews this month as part of a voluntary program administered by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, Chief Matt Solovay said Tuesday.

Assessors from the association will arrive on April 20 to re-examine the police department's policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services. The communications center review will take place on April 22.

The department has held accredited status since 2014 and has maintained it through reassessments in 2017, 2020, and 2023. The communications center is seeking accreditation for the first time.

"Accreditation promotes increased accountability throughout the agency, helps reduce risk and liability exposure, strengthens the agency's defense in civil litigation, fosters greater community support, and enhances public confidence in the agency's ability to operate effectively and meet community needs," Solovay said.

For the communications center, Solovay said accreditation "demonstrates our Communications Center's commitment to professionalism, accountability, and best practices in public safety communications."

Members of the public are invited to comment during both reviews. For the department assessment, residents may call (609) 751-2359 on April 20 between 10 and 11 a.m. For the communications center review, calls will be accepted April 22 during the same hours. Telephone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency's ability to comply with NJSACOP standards.

Written and email comments for both reviews can be sent to Sgt. Michael Strobel at mstrobel@princetonnj.gov or to NJSACOP Accreditation Program Director Harry J. Delgado at hdelgado@njsacop.org.

Assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and inspect facilities before reporting to the full commission, which will determine whether accredited status is granted or maintained. Accreditation is valid for three years, during which the agency must submit annual compliance reports.

For more information, contact Capt. Thomas Lagomarsino at (609) 921-2100 ext. 2169.

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