News 2022: Police Department receives reaccreditation

Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission praises Department's focus on high standards

The UMass Dartmouth Police Department received its reaccreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission on October 26, 2022

Accreditation is a self-initiated evaluation process by which police departments strive to meet and maintain standards that have been established for the profession, by the profession. These carefully selected standards reflect critical areas of police management, operations, and technical support activities. The standards cover policy development, emergency response planning, training, communications, property and evidence handling, use of force, vehicular pursuit, prisoner transportation, and holding facilities. The program not only sets standards for the law enforcement profession but also for the delivery of police services to citizens of the Commonwealth.

"What an honor to be acknowledged by peers as an organization that meets the recognized core competencies and standards for policing," said Kimberly Scott, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, who oversees the Department. "Kudos to our Police Department for their leadership and for taking good care of our community."

"Everyone in our Police Department is proud that the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission has recognized UMass Dartmouth for reaccreditation," said Deputy Chief of Police John Souza. "This is our third time reaching this goal since 2016, and I want to commend our Accreditation Manager, Sgt. Kristin Costa, who has been the driving force behind our success in the accreditation process. Our entire staff is committed to excellence, and I'm proud to work with such dedicated individuals.

To renew its accreditation status, the UMassD Police Department must focus on maintaining the highest standards for professionalism, officer accountability, and develop policies consistent with best practices and police reform, which are critical to providing quality service to the community and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Accreditation has been granted for three years. Participation in the program is strictly voluntary.