Police invite comments as part of accreditation process

As part of a state accreditation process, the Birmingham Police Department is inviting comments from the public regarding any aspect of its services or operations.

A team of assessors from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission will be in Birmingham today to examine all aspects of the Police Department’s policies and procedures, management, operations and support services.

The public may call 248530-1791 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. today. Limit phone comments to five minutes.

Email comments can be sent to birminghampolice@bhamgov.org by Wednesday; write “Accreditation comments” in the subject line. Emails may also be sent to the accreditation program manager at nrossow@michiganpolicechiefs.org.

The comments may be on any subject related to the Police Department and may also address the department’s ability to comply with the commission’s standards. A copy is available for inspection at the police station, 151 Martin St. Contact Lt. Greg Wald at 248-530-1775 for more information.

The Police Department must comply with 105 standards in order to achieve accredited status.

“Verification by the team that the Birmingham Police Department meets the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission’s ‘best practice’ standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence”, Chief Mark Clemence said.

“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,” he said.