The Wayne Police Department is seeking accreditation from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, a prestigious designation currently held by only about 50 percent of police departments in the state.
A team of assessors from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police (MACP) which certifies the accreditation visited the city earlier this month. The investigators examined all aspects of the Wayne Police Department policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services, explained Wayne Chief of Police Ryan Strong.
“Accreditation through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police ensures that the Wayne Police Department's policies and actions meet accepted best practices for law enforcement. Accreditation should be a significant source of pride for the Wayne Police Department and the community”, Strong said.
As part of this final on-site assessment, employees and members of the general public were invited to provide comments to the assessment team. A copy of the standards of service required to secure accreditation is available for inspection at the Wayne Police Department at33701 E Michigan Ave. Wayne. MI 48184. Contact Lieutenant Robert Amore at (734) 721-1414 x1527 for additional information.
Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the ability of the Wayne Police Department to comply with the standards for accreditation can 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.
The Wayne Police Department must comply with 105 standards to achieve accredited status. “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,” Strong said.
The assessment team comprises law enforcement practitioners from similar Michigan law enforcement agencies.
The assessors review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed.
Once the assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full commission, which will then decide if the agency is to be granted accredited status, according to an official from MACP.
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 under which it was initially accredited.
