Accreditation Standards

Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation

The mission of the Traverse City Police Department is, “Excellence in public service through community policing.”  The Department’s policy manual is a direct reflection of its mission.  A tenant of community policing is transparency. 

In an effort to achieve that goal, the Department has posted its most current policy manual for public view.

The manual itself is a fluid document; changing with technological advancements, best practices and law.  The most recent version will be posted on a quarterly basis and is under continual review and revision.

The Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police (MACP) has pursued the concept and development of a voluntary law enforcement accreditation program for Michigan’s law enforcement agencies. This effort has resulted in the formation of the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, consisting of commissioners across the state. Personnel from the MACP provide support services to the Commission and to law enforcement agencies.  Policy and procedure based on Accreditation will not insure a crime-free environment for citizens, nor will it ensure an absence of litigation against law enforcement agencies and executives. Consistent application and reinforcement of written department directives will help to strengthen community trust.

Accreditation is a progressive and time-proven way of helping law enforcement agencies calculate and improve their overall performance. The foundation of Accreditation lies in the adoption of standards containing a clear statement of professional objectives, while ensuring transparency and accountability.  Accreditation acknowledges the implementation of policies and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective, while reflecting community values and guarding quality of life.

The Traverse City Police Department was awarded the certificate of accreditation by the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC) on March 1, 2021 for a term of 3 years becoming only the 31st agency in the State of Michigan to achieve this award.         

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