The Valparaiso Police Department has been awarded its fifth accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), the gold standard in policing worldwide. “Achieving reaccreditation is no small feat and reflects the department's dedication to maintaining the highest standards of professional policing,” said Valparaiso Police Chief Andrew McIntyre. “In earning our fifth award, we have again committed to the gold standard of policing and ensured we will continue to provide exceptional service to our community.”
“We congratulate our VPD on this prestigious accreditation and applaud their commitment to our community by holding themselves to the very highest standards,” said Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas. “In Valparaiso, we value public safety and commend our extraordinary Valparaiso Police Department for their work each day.”
The accreditation process, and this award, is the culmination of self-evaluation, concluded in a review from independent assessors and CALEA Commissioners, accomplished through a highly regarded and recognized body of professional standards. As one of only 14 municipalities in the State of Indiana to achieve this accreditation, the Valparaiso Police Department sets itself apart and exemplifies the highest level of professional excellence.
Accreditation Manager Captain E. Joe Hall expressed the pride felt by the agency in being presented their fifth award, stating, “As an accredited agency, we are able to provide quality service to our citizens, promoting community trust and engagement through the application of policies that are based on accepted public safety standards. We wish to thank each dedicated member of the Valparaiso Police Department for their continued hard work, as well as the exceptional community for the continuous support. Together we can maintain the highest standards of public safety.”
Photo caption: Accepting the CALEA Accreditation at the CALEA Summer Conference in Winston-Salem is, left to right, W. Craig Hartley, CALEA Executive Director; VPD Assistant Chief Mark LaMotte; VPD Captain Brian McDonald; VPD Captain E. Joe Hall; VPD Chief of Police Andrew McIntyre; Marlon Lynch – Commissioner (CALEA).