To facilitate the process the department revamped all of its policies and procedures from page 1, and ended with 250 new procedures and standards. Simply put the department started over and wrote policies and procedures to closely align its self not only with accreditation but with modern law enforcement practices.

The department was put through a “mock inspection” in which three outside assessors from C.F.A. put the department under a microscope and scrutinized every aspect of the operations of the department including policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services. Several deficiencies were noted and promptly fixed including new refrigerators for storing biological samples, the fence around the fuel tank for the backup generator, and minor policy changes.

After the mock inspection the Assessment Team took a second and final look at the department. Several deficiencies were noted and promptly fixed, including the procedure for collecting monies at the records counter and a new cash register.  

Accreditation increases the law enforcement department’s ability to prevent and control crime through more effective and efficient delivery of law enforcement services to the community it serves.

Accreditation enhances community understanding of the law enforcement department and its role in the community as well as its goals and objectives. Citizen confidence in the policies and practices of the department is increased.

Accreditation, in conjunction with the philosophy of community policing, commits the department to a broad range of programs (such as crime prevention) that directly benefit the public.

Accreditation assures employees that every aspect of the department’s personnel system is in accord with professional standards, and that the system is both fair and equitable.

The department is compelled to operate within specific guidelines. It is accountable to the Commission. The department must stay in compliance with the standards set forth by the Commission in order to retain its accreditation.

The morale of the department is enhanced by increasing the employees’ confidence in the effectiveness and efficiency of their own department. Operations become more streamlined and consistent.

Accreditation policies address officer safety issues and provide for adequate training and equipment of the officers.

Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence. Employees and citizens should take pride in their department, knowing that it represents the very best in law enforcement.

Once the Commission’s assessors complete their review of the department, they report back to the full Commission, which will decide if the department is to receive reaccredited status. Law enforcement accreditation is for 3 years. Verification by the team that the Titusville Police Department meets the Commission’s standards is a voluntary process.