Accreditation

The University of Maryland Police Department has earned international accreditation from the The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) since 1996. Accreditation involves an in-depth examination of the agency’s administration and operations, and indicates that the department adheres to high standards of professionalism, excellence, and competence. The University of Maryland Police Department takes pride in knowing that it represents the very best in law enforcement. 

CALEA developed the accreditation process so that law enforcement agencies have the opportunity to demonstrate compliance with an established set of professional standards. The accreditation standards established by CALEA are designed to:

• Increase law enforcement capabilities to prevent and control crime 
• Increase agency effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of law enforcement services 
• Increase cooperation and coordination with other law enforcement agencies and with other agencies of the criminal justice system 
• Increase citizen and employee confidence in the goals, objectives, policies, and practices of the agency

To maintain accredited status, the agency must remain in compliance with applicable standards and undergo on-site assessments by CALEA representatives every four years. The agency submits annual reports to the Commission attesting to continued compliance and steps taken to correct any matters of noncompliance.

Members of the public may contact CALEA directly to offer feedback on the department.