MAYS LANDING – The Atlantic County Prosecutors Office is seeking accreditation from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.
A team of assessors from NJSACOP will examine all aspects of the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office policies and procedures, management, operations and support services Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 15-16.
"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," Prosecutor William E. Reynolds said.
As part of the onsite assessment, employees and members of the general public are invited to provide comments to the assessment team by telephone or email.
The public may call 609-909-7733 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept.16 or email comments to [email protected]. Telephone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency's ability to comply with the NJSACOP standards.
Written comments may be sent by email to Accreditation Program Director Harry J. Delgado at [email protected] or write to NJSACOP Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 751 Route 73 North, Suite 12, Marlton, NJ 08053.
The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar New Jersey law enforcement agencies. The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other locations to verify compliance with standards.
"Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency's ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs,” Reynolds said.
Once the review is complete, the team will report to the full commission, which will then decide if accredited status is granted. Accreditation is valid for three years, during which the agency must submit annual reports confirming continued compliance.
For more information about the standards, contact Agent Mark Cooker at 609-909-7881 or email [email protected].
