CRPD Receives Second CALEA Certification

The Cedar Rapids Police Department (CRPD) received its second CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies) Certification for Advanced Law Enforcement status at a formal Commission hearing on Friday and a ceremony Saturday night in Oklahoma City. CALEA accreditation is the gold standard for public-safety agencies and signifies a commitment to professional, accountable, and verifiable policies and procedures.

Acting Police Chief Tom Jonker, CRPD Accreditation Program Manager Sherri Hawkins, City Manager Jeff Pomeranz, Councilmember Dale Todd and Officer Michael Hass represented CRPD at the presentation.

"Accreditation is a symbol of the dedication to excellence of the entire Cedar Rapids Police Department to our community," said Acting Chief Jonker. "CALEA ensures our techniques and policies are on the cutting edge of modern policing and helps us attract the best possible officer applicants."

CALEA certification is completed on a four-year cycle and looks back at a department's compliance and performance across a wide range of measurable proficiencies. Every part of the department is evaluated by independent law-enforcement professionals. CALEA only awards the official seal of accreditation after a department has shown proof of their ability to perform.

Several City of Cedar Rapids Departments are accredited through their respective industries' professional groups, demonstrating the City's commitment to deliver the best possible services for its residents, businesses, organizations and visitors.