CALEA

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., (CALEA®) was created in 1979 as a credentialing authority through the joint efforts of law enforcement's major executive associations

The process of CALEA Accreditation begins with a rigorous self-assessment, requiring a review of policies, practices, and processes against internationally accepted public safety standards. This is followed with an assessment by independent assessors with significant public safety experience. Additionally, public feedback is received to promote community trust and engagement. Structured interviews are conducted with select agency personnel and others with knowledge to assess the agency’s effectiveness and overall service delivery capacities. The decision to accredit is rendered by a governing body of twenty-one Commissioners following a public hearing and review of all reporting documentation.

CALEA Accreditation is a continuous process and serves as the foundation for a successful, well managed, transparent, community-focused public safety agency. To this end, an agency must maintain its accredited status by remaining in compliance with CALEA standards at all times.

In March of 2025, the CALEA Commission Sub-Committee granted Culpeper PD the agency’s seventh Advance Accreditation award with its second Meritorious Achievement.

CALEA’s Accreditation Programs

The purpose of CALEA's Accreditation Programs is to improve the delivery of public safety services, primarily by: maintaining a body of standards, developed by public safety practitioners, covering a wide range of up-to-date public safety initiatives; establishing and administering an accreditation process; and recognizing professional excellence.


Specifically, CALEA’s goals are to:

  • Strengthen crime prevention and control capabilities;

  • Formalize essential management procedures;

  • Establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices;

  • Improve service delivery;

  • Solidify interagency cooperation and coordination; and

  • Increase community and staff confidence in the agency.

PUBLIC COMMENT PORTAL

This public comment portal will replace the public call-in session and the public hearing required by Law Enforcement Standard 45.2.3.  The purpose of this public comment portal is to receive comments regarding the agency’s compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status.  These comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. 

We are always striving for continuous improvement while maintaining professional excellence.