Our Police Department has been working on becoming an accredited agency. Last month, the Accreditation Board spent two full days with our department reviewing our operational practices, policies and procedures. We are pleased to report today, our TCPD has been awarded State Accreditation. Only 40 agencies in the State out of over 280 have reached the goal of accreditation.
So what does that mean? By receiving this accreditation status, it tells everyone that our department has demonstrated dedication to excellence and professionalism in South Carolina law enforcement through voluntary compliance to specific state and national standards designed to enhance the professional delivery of law enforcement services. It recognizes our Police Department as a leader in South Carolina law enforcement. By becoming an accredited agency, the risk and liability to the City is reduced. It increases our probability of receiving grants. Every year we have been able to purchase $4,000 worth of bullet proof vests through a safety grant. Now that we are accredited, we are placed in a different category making us eligible for up to $8,000 for the same grant funding.
At the December 19th Council meeting, a member of the Accreditation Board will go through this information and talk in greater detail about what this means. Sincere appreciation is given for the hard work and effort Chief Parker, Major Nelson and Lt. Spence put into this process. With Chief Parker’s guidance, Major Nelson and Lt. Spence took on a huge task that typically takes three years to complete. They were able to accomplish it in 18 months. Please join us in congratulating them on this well deserved recognition.