Manchester PD Seeks Your Comments For Accreditation

How good a job are Manchester Township police doing? They're looking for your comments as they undergo accreditation inspection starting September 30th.

Members of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) arrive that day to pore over policies and procedures, operations and management, and support services, says Chief Brian Klimakowski.

"Verification...that the Manchester Township Police meet the Commission's 'best practice' standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation," said Klimakowski in a prepared statement, "a highly-prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence."

Accreditation by the agency has a three-year life span sustained by annual reports attesting to continued compliance.

There are 112 requirements to be met. The achievement, says Klimakowski, means greater internal accountability, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and higher confidence in responding to community needs.

They'll take your comments by phone on Monday, October 1, from 9 'til 11 AM, at 732-849-8359. Each caller has five minutes and should focus on the department's ability to meet NJSACOP standards. Copies of the criteria are available at Police Headquarters on Colonial Drive. Lieutenant Todd Malland is the local contact, 732-657-2009.

Written comments can be sent to Harry Delgado, Accreditation Program Manager of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, 1 Greentree Centre, Suite 201, 10000 Lincoln Drive East, Marlon NJ 08053.