CALEA Accreditation

The Astoria Police Department is excited to embark on the journey toward becoming an accredited agency through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Program (CALEA). This process represents a commitment to excellence, ensuring that our department operates under the highest professional standards in law enforcement. Accreditation will strengthen our ability to serve the community by enhancing transparency, improving accountability, and building public trust.

By undergoing a thorough evaluation of policies, procedures, and operations, we will demonstrate our dedication to maintaining a department that is not only effective but also responsive to the evolving needs of Astoria. This journey is not just about meeting benchmarks—it’s about fostering stronger relationships with the community and providing the best possible service to those who call Astoria home. We look forward to working closely with the public, our officers, and all stakeholders to achieve this important goal.

What does it mean to be an accredited agency?

Participating in CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies) Accreditation means that an agency, such as a police department, voluntarily seeks to meet a set of professional standards established by CALEA. These standards cover a range of areas including policies, procedures, operations, and training to ensure that the agency is providing high-quality, efficient, and effective service to the community.

To become accredited, the agency undergoes a thorough self-assessment, then an external review by CALEA assessors who evaluate whether the agency is meeting the necessary standards. If successful, the agency receives formal accreditation, which is a mark of excellence and helps to enhance public trust and accountability. It also encourages continuous improvement within the organization.

Greater Accountability with the Agency

"Greater accountability with the agency" refers to the idea that participating in CALEA Accreditation helps improve transparency, responsibility, and public trust within the law enforcement agency. By meeting CALEA's established standards, the agency demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices, professional conduct, and effective service delivery. This not only ensures that the agency operates in a manner that is consistent with best practices but also provides a framework for ongoing evaluation and improvement, ultimately making the agency more answerable to both the public and governing bodies.

Accreditation Public Comment Portal

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) invites the public to participate in the ongoing process of ensuring that law enforcement agencies uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability. We value your input and encourage you to share your thoughts, feedback, and concerns through the CALEA Public Comment Portal.

Your comments are an essential part of the accreditation process, helping to improve law enforcement practices and strengthen community trust. Whether you are a member of the community, a law enforcement professional, or an interested stakeholder, your perspective matters.

Please feel free to submit your comments regarding the policies, procedures, or standards being reviewed. We are committed to transparency, engagement, and continuous improvement.

How to Submit Comments:

Navigate to the relevant section of the portal.
Provide your comments or feedback on the proposed standards.
Submit your input by following the instructions on the page.

Thank you for your participation in this important process!

https://cimrs2.calea.org/