The Arlington Police Department has been awarded re-accreditation status for its compliance to internationally recognized professional law enforcement standards.

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies has been accrediting police departments in the United States, Mexico, Canada and Barbados since 1985. The Arlington Police Department is one of only 25 agencies in Texas that voluntarily commits to CALEA’s standards of excellence. Seven are located in North Texas.

CALEA accreditation is one of the greatest forms of accountability in law enforcement, according to CALEA Executive Director Sylvester Daughtry, Jr.

"The process is a great example of the department’s openness to inspection by the general public," Daughtry said. "It enhances the ability to provide quality public service to the community."

The Arlington Police Department was required to meet 446 standards that address areas of administration, operation and technical support.

A self-assessment was followed by an on-site assessment of policies, procedures and personnel. Assessors also sought public input from the community as part of the accreditation process.

"This accreditation is our Police Department’s commitment to quality," said Mayor Robert Cluck.  "From our chief to the beat officers who patrol our streets and neighborhoods, the Arlington Police Department’s number one job is the safety and security of our community.  Their performance remains second to none." 

The Arlington Police Department was first accredited by CALEA in 1989 for a five year period. It was re-accredited in 1994 for another five years, and began a three-year re-accreditation cycle in 1999. Arlington Dispatch Services has maintained a separate CALEA accredited Communications Center since July 2004.