October 28th, 2022 -2:30 PM
WBHF RADIO-
The Euharlee Police Department has been awarded State Certification by the Georgia Police Accreditation Coalition and Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police. Chief Jody Matthews stated that, “We started working towards State Certification immediately after I was hired in 2019. We examined the agency thoroughly, and policy wise we wiped the slate clean and started from scratch. We put in place a standard operating procedures manual and policies that raised the bar in the way we conduct business, and continually monitor our progress and adherence to those policies and procedures. We rebuilt the way the agency operates and at the same time changed the way we interact and involve ourselves with the community, communicate, and work to build trust. We are more transparent and accountable in all areas including use of force, professional standards, fiscal accountability, training, patrol function, and investigative function, among others.”
According to the GACP website, “State Certification status represents a significant professional achievement. The GACP has identified standards that are felt to be essential to the efficient and effective operation of law enforcement agencies. Certification acknowledges the implementation of policies and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective. The standards provide a detailed blueprint for professional enforcement. They are credible, realistic, flexible and effective. The standards incorporate contemporary professional thought and practices in the State and will ensure the goal of increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of Georgia law enforcement agencies. The benefits of certification include confirmation that agency practices are consistent with progressive professional standards, greater operational and administrative effectiveness, enhanced understanding of agency policies and practices, greater public confidence in the agency, recognition in the field of outstanding achievement, reduced liability potential, and greater governmental and community support”
The Euharlee Police Department is amongst 137 Law Enforcement agencies in the State of Georgia to obtain State Certification, out of approximately 630 Law Enforcement agencies. Chief Matthews indicates that, “Obtaining State Certification wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff. The men and women that serve this great community, truly care about this profession and the service we provide, and we strive to be a better department and be better servants every day. Everyone who works at the Euharlee Police Department pitched in and we went from scratch to a state certified agency in just three short years. I couldn’t be prouder of them for this achievement and the work they do every day to make the City of Euharlee better.”
The Euharlee Police Department will be presented with a plaque by representatives from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police on Tuesday, November 1st at 7:00 PM in the City of Euharlee Council Chambers. The public is invited to attend the presentation, and celebration to follow.