Accreditation

Overview

Accreditation is a coveted award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence, and competence. It requires written directives and training to inform employees about policies and practices; facilities and equipment to ensure employees' safety; and processes to safeguard employees' rights. A community with an accredited law enforcement agency can take pride in its department, knowing it represents the very best in law enforcement.

Spartanburg Police Department was awarded National Accreditation on March 20, 1999, by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The department is also recognized as an accredited agency with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Council (SCLEA) and is a member of the South Carolina Police Accreditation Coalition.

Proof that compliance with national standards has been maintained as required by CALEA every four years. Agencies must participate in an onsite assessment, where a team of CALEA Assessors reviews files and solicits feedback from a variety of stakeholders. Our next onsite assessment will take place in December 2024.

CALEA Accreditation Program Information

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., (CALEA®) was created in 1979 as a credentialing authority through the joint efforts of law enforcement's major executive associations:

  • International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
  • National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)
  • National Sheriffs' Association (NSA)
  • Police Executive Research Forum (PERF)

Noted Benefits of a CALEA Accredited Agency

Controlled Liability Insurance Costs

Accredited status makes it easier for agencies to purchase police liability insurance, allows agencies to increase the limit of their insurance coverage more easily, and in many cases results in lower premiums.

Stronger Defense Against Lawsuits & Citizen Complaints

Accredited agencies are better able to defend themselves against lawsuits and citizen complaints. Many agencies report a decline in legal actions against them once they become accredited.

Greater Accountability Within the Agency

Accreditation standards give the Chief Executive Officer a proven management system of written directives, sound training, clearly defined lines of authority, and routine reports that support decision-making and resource allocation.

Support From Government Officials

Accreditation provides objective evidence of an agency's commitment to excellence in leadership, resource management, and service delivery. Thus, government officials are more confident in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and meet community needs.

Increased Community Advocacy

Accreditation embodies the precepts of community-oriented policing. It creates a forum in which police and citizens work together to prevent and control crime. This partnership helps citizens understand the challenges confronting law enforcement and gives law enforcement clear direction about community expectations.

For more information on accreditation visit the CALEA website.

ACCREDITATION PUBLIC COMMENT PORTAL

The purpose of the public portal is to receive comments regarding compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status. These comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. Click this link to access the Public Comment Portal to share your comments.

Note: It is important to know that CALEA is not an investigatory body, and subsequently the public portal should not be used to submit information for such purposes. Additionally, there will be no response other than acknowledgment of submissions; however, the information will be considered in context to its relevancy to compliance with standards and the tenets of CALEA Accreditation. accreditation logo