The Sumpter Township Police Department is now one of the 90 law enforcement agencies in the state to achieve accreditation by the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC).
During a formal hearing in Grand Rapids on Feb. 4, the Sumpter Township department was awarded the prestigious certification from the state organization. Of the current 571 law enforcement agencies in the state, only 90 have achieved the level of professional standards required for official accreditation by MLEAC.
Officials said accreditation is a progressive and proven method that helps agencies enhance their overall performance and service. The foundation of the program is the proven adoption and compliance with 108 professional standards that articulate clear professional objectives. Under these 108 standards, police agencies are required to provide evidence of compliance in multiple subcategories. Following an intensive investigation, the performance of the Sumpter Township Police Department demonstrated adherence to the established standards.
Achieving accreditation status is a significant professional milestone, police officials said.
It recognizes our implementation of policies and procedures that reflect best practices in law enforcement. This process has also enables police departments to better serve their community, reduce risk and liability for both officers and the department, and strengthen the trust and reputation police officers and the department holds in the community.
In an official social media post, a spokesman for the Sumpter Police Department noted, “The MLEAC accreditation program encourages continuous improvement, accountability, and transparency within the law enforcement profession. Our department is committed to maintaining this as we begin the path of re-accreditation in three years.
“We are incredibly proud of our department and extend our gratitude to Accreditation Manager Sgt. Brian Seffani and Assistant Accreditation Manager Capt. Patrick Gannon for their dedication and outstanding work towards this achievement.”
