Police department seeking state accreditation

Captain Greg Hannewald and Detective Brian Dogonski (seated)
look at data on the police dashboard. Photo by Liz Cezat.

A team of assessors from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC) will arrive at the City of Northville Police Department on April 7 to examine all aspects of the department's policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services. It's all part of the department's voluntary process to achieve accreditation - a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence. 

The team will verify that the Northville police department meets MLEAC best practice standards by complying with 105 standards, a goal set by Police Chief Alan Maciag. 

"Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and greater confidence in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs," said Maciag.

A copy of the standards is available for review at the City of Northville Police Department, 215 W. Main St. Northville. 

Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the ability of the police department to comply with the standards for accreditation should email the accreditation program manager at nrossow@michiganpolicechiefs.org or write the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Pkwy., Suite 600, Okemos, MI  48864. 

Members of the general public can provide comments to the assessment team by phone or email  from 9 until 11 a.m. Friday, April 8. On that date, call (248) 449-9910 or email comments to amaciag@ci.northville.mi.us. Phone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the ability of the agency to comply with the commission standards.   

Accreditation is valid for a three-year period during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to their continued compliance with the initial accreditation standards.

The MACP, through the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, is the legitimate authority and accreditation agency in the state of Michigan.