Public input sought on GTPD for re-accreditation
Pictured left to right: Sergeant Gary Cook, Officer Sabrina Vigil-Rodriguez, Officer Patrick Baxter, and Officer Loran Crabtree.
The Georgia Tech Police Department (GTPD) invites the public to share feedback on the department at an information session 6 p.m., March 30, at the Callaway Manufacturing Research Center Building, 813 Ferst Drive.
The session is part of GTPD’s pursuit of re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA). A team of CALEA assessors will visit campus March 29-30 to examine all aspects of GTPD’s policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services. Verification by the assessment team that GTPD meets the Commission’s state-of-the-art standards is part of a voluntary process for re-accreditation.
“Accreditation is a highly prized recognition of public safety professional excellence,” said GTPD Chief Robert Connolly. “It’s a challenging process requiring us to comply with 189 standards. We’ve measured up to these standards in the past, and we’re eager to earn this credential again demonstrating we have highly-skilled, highly-trained men and women protecting the Georgia Tech community.”
In addition to the public hearing, feedback can also be provided by calling (404) 385-5227 between 1-3 p.m. on March 30 or by writing to CALEA, 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320 Gainesville, Virginia, 20155. Comments are limited to 10 minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA standards.
The accreditation standards are available for review with Lt. Joel Montezinos at GTPD, 879 Hemphill Avenue NW.
Accreditation by CALEA lasts four years. GTPD must submit annual reports attesting continued compliance with the standards under which it was initially accredited.
More information on accreditation is available by calling (703) 352-4225 or emailing calea@calea.org.