The Norton Police Department announced Wednesday that it is now one step closer to becoming accredited by the state.
The department was assessed by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission last week. Now, it will wait for the commission to vote on whether or not accreditation will be received.
Below is a full statement from the Norton PD:
On October 11th and 12th, 2013, the Norton Police Department was assessed by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission for state accreditation. The successful completion of the assessment resulted in the department becoming one step closer toward the goal of state accreditation. In January, the Commission will officially vote to award the Norton Police Department with the achievement of accreditation.
In October, 2012, the Norton Police Department was awarded the achievement of state certification by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. This consisted of meeting 159 standards set by the Commission. The most recent assessment included meeting 170 more standards toward the goal of accreditation.
Chief Clark made the goal of accreditation a priority when he enrolled the department in the accreditation program four years ago. Being accredited shows that the department follows the policies, procedures and best police practices recognized by the law enforcement community and by the Commission. The standards met by achieving accreditation have been established for the profession, by the profession.
Currently in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 47 law enforcement agencies are accredited, and 21 certified, by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. The achievement of state accreditation ultimately results in professional police services for the Town of Norton, allowing the department to better serve the community.
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