The CALEA accreditation programs involve a comprehensive review of a law enforcement agency's organization, management, operations, and administration. 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)
The benefits of the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Police Department participating in CALEA Accreditation include increased community advocacy, reduced risk and liability, and greater accountability.
The EBRPD Police Department began the accreditation process in 2010 with a self-assessment examination by the agency to determine whether it complied with all applicable standards. It concluded with an on-site inspection by CALEA assessors and a final review hearing by the commission. Participation in the CALEA accreditation program is voluntary, but successful completion provides a law enforcement agency with a nationally recognized award for excellence and professional achievement. The EBRPD Police Department received re-accreditation in July 2013 and in July 2016.
On July 21, 2020, the internationally recognized Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) awarded the EBRPD Police Department with its fourth official accreditation, continuing as one of only sixteen CALEA-accredited agencies in California.
This award was distinguished in that it was an Advanced Accreditation award, which is intended to provide agencies an opportunity to be further recognized for the effective use of accreditation as a model for the delivery of enhanced public safety services and management professionalism. The Advanced Law Enforcement Program is specifically designed for elite organizations striving to demonstrate professional excellence within a comprehensive range of operational and administrative functional responsibilities.
- About CALEA® https://www.calea.org/