A team of assessors from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police visited the law enforcement agency in September to examine all aspects of the Prosecutor's Office policies and procedures, management, operations and support services.
Verification by the team that the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office meets the Commission's 'best practice' standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence, Tyner said.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office must comply with NJSACOP LEAP standards in order to achieve accredited status.
Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduces risk and liability exposure, provides stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs, he said.
The Accreditation Program Director Harry J Delgado said the assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar New Jersey law enforcement agencies.
During the accreditation process, assessors reviewed written materials, interviewed agency members and visited offices and other places where compliance with the standards were observed.
Accreditation is valid for a three-year period during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to its continued compliance with the standards.
