Police Chief Bob Muenz on Tuesday announced that the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) awarded the Blue Springs Police Department reaccreditation. This is the fourth reaccreditation for the department following an in-depth evaluation of public safety best practices and standards.
“National accreditation by CALEA is an important achievement for our department and our community,” Muenz said. “It is a rigorous process and this recognition is a direct result of the hard work and professionalism of all our employees.”
The CALEA Accreditation process begins with a diligent self-assessment, requiring a review of policies, practices, and processes against internationally accepted public safety standards. This is followed with an assessment by independent evaluators with significant public safety experience. Additionally, public feedback is received to promote community trust and engagement. Interviews are also conducted with select agency personnel and others with knowledge to assess the agency’s effectiveness and overall service delivery capacities. The decision to accredit is rendered by a governing body of 21 Commissioners following a public hearing and a review of all reporting documentation.
CALEA Commissioner Tim Baysinger officially presented the department its Accreditation certificate at the Sept. 6 City Council Meeting.