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Now in the final stages of the voluntary accreditation process, the Asbury Park Police Department will be under review Monday by a team of assessors,” Deputy Chief Kelso announced via a written statement.

A New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police [NJSACOP] team will examine all aspects of the Department’s policies and procedures, as well as its management, operations, and support services, Kelso said.

Approximately one-third of New Jersey’s law enforcement agencies have the accreditation, which among other things has been known reduce insurance premiums and liability claims.

As a part of the evaluation process, the public will have the opportunity to make comments to the assessment team. Telephone calls will be received from 10 a.m to noon Monday via 732-502-5748 or via email to carmen.gagliano@cityofasburypark.com.

Telephone comments will be limited to 5 minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the NJSACOP standards, officials said. A copy of the 105 standards is available at the Asbury Park Police Department, located 1 Municipal Plaza.

Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs, according to the written statement.

“The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed,” Accreditation Program Manager Harry J Delgado said. “Once the Commission’s assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full Commission, which will then decide if the agency is to be granted accredited status.”

Written comments about the Asbury Park Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation will be accepted via hdelgado@njsacop.org.

Accreditation is valid for a three years and the Police Department must submit annual reports attesting to its compliance.

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