The California Highway Patrol is seeking accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc., or CALEA, for its communications operations.
“The communication centers are the front lines of public safety and service, our dispatchers working in these facilities are fielding the vast majority of wireless 9-1-1 calls in the state,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “The accreditation process for our communications unit is another excellent opportunity for the public to provide feedback about our operations as we continue to promote transparency and accountability while striving to improve our organization.”
Participation in the CALEA accreditation program is a voluntary process, yet a highly prized recognition of public safety professional excellence.
To obtain initial accreditation, agencies are required to undergo a thorough assessment process.
Verification by an assessment team from other states will ensure the CHP meets the commission’s state-of-the-art standards.
As part of its bid for accreditation, members of the public are invited to offer comments to the CALEA assessment team via telephone.
A public call-in period will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12.
Members of the public wishing to comment may call 916-843-3325, during this time period.
Comments should be limited to the department’s ability to comply with CALEA standards and focus on its communications functions.
A copy of the standards will be made available at the CHP Headquarters, 601 North 7th St., Sacramento, CA 95811.
Persons wishing to offer written comments about the CHP’s ability to meet the accreditation standards may write to CALEA, at 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainsville, VA 20155.
Accreditation of CHP’s public safety communications function follows the department’s accreditation in November 2010 and reaccreditation in 2013.
In addition, last year, the CHP Academy became the first accredited state police training academy in the nation.
Established in 1979, CALEA’s accreditation program improves the delivery of public safety services and recognizes professional excellence.
For more information about CALEA, visit http://www.calea.org .