Port Orange Police Department gears up for CALEA accreditation.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

To provide professional excellence in public safety, the Port Orange Police Department initiated a voluntary accreditation process with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) back in 2004. This endeavor began a commitment to meeting and exceeding internationally recognized standards and best practices. 

Fast forward to 2020, and the Police Department proudly secured its sixth reaccreditation from CALEA, achieving the esteemed status of excellence, the highest level of recognition.

Since obtaining its initial accreditation, the Port Orange Police Department has undergone a series of rigorous self-assessments, constantly refining its policies and standard operating procedures to align with CALEA's stringent standards. The Port Orange Police Department has consistently participated in annual compliance assessments conducted remotely by CALEA staff to ensure continuous adherence to the accreditation requirements.

As the Police Department approaches its 20th year of accredited status in 2024, a crucial milestone, an external law enforcement assessor from CALEA will arrive in Port Orange on December 11, 2023. This four-day visit will entail a comprehensive site-based assessment, interviews with agency personnel and community members, and a thorough examination of various aspects, including processes, outcomes, department operations, support services, policies, and procedures.

"Next year, the Department will celebrate 20 years of accredited status through CALEA, which is a testament to our agency's commitment to excellence. The accreditation process ensures that the Port Orange Police Department continually benchmarks itself against national standards and best practices, guaranteeing the provision of professional law enforcement services to our community," said Police Chief Manuel J. Marino.

As part of the assessment process, CALEA and the Port Orange Police Department invite public engagement through the CALEA Public Comment Portal to allow the public to provide comments on the agency's compliance with CALEA standards, its engagement in the service community, the delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status. Citizen comments, commendations, or concerns will be reported to the police department to support growth and improvement. It is important to note that the portal is not for information related to current or potential cases, and in case of emergencies, individuals should call 911.

The CALEA Public Comment Portal is accessible through the City website year-round. Additionally, for further information on CALEA, inquiries can be directed to 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainesville, Virginia, 20155, or by calling (703) 352-4225 or emailing calea@calea.org.