Public Comment Open For Wyckoff Police Accreditation

WYCKOFF, NJ — A team of assessors from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police will examine all aspects of the local department's policies and procedures, management, operations and support services starting on Monday.

This comes as the department is seeking to maintain accreditation with the agency, the department said.

"Verification by the team that the Wyckoff Police Department meets the Commission’s “best practice” standards is part of a voluntary process to maintain accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence," said Chief David Murphy.

As part of this final on-site assessment, employees and members of the public can provide comments to the assessment team by telephone or email. The public can call 551-319-6426 on Monday between the hours of 10:00am and 11:00am. Email comments can be sent to mragucci@wyckoffpolice.org.

Telephone comments are limited to 5 minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the NJSACOP standards.

Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the Wyckoff Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation is requested to email the Accreditation Program Director at hdelgado@njsacop.org, or write the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 751 Route 73 North, Suite 12 Marlton, N.J. 08053.

The Wyckoff Police Department must comply with NJSACOP LEAP standards in order to maintain accredited status. Accreditation is valid for a three-year period during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to their continued compliance with those standards.

Though it's not mandatory for departments to have this accrediation, there are benefits, according to Murphy.

"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," he said.

Here's how it works, from Harry Delgado, the accreditation program director:

"The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar New Jersey law enforcement agencies. The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed. Once the Commission’s assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full Commission, which will then decide if the agency is to maintain its accredited status."