It is a challenging process, which includes writing and rewriting new policies, adopting nationally recognized best practices, and a two-day on-site inspection conducted by representatives from the NJSACOP. The Town of Boonton Police Department has been working towards achieving this goal for the past two years. Some of the primary goals of accreditation are to:

• strengthen crime prevention efforts
• formalize essential management practices
• establish fair and nondiscriminatory personnel practices
• increase inter-agency cooperation
• increase overall trust and confidence in the agency.

The standards established by accreditation provide the Chief of Police and his command staff with a proven management system of written directives, effective training, clearly defined lines of authority, and routine processes that support decision-making and resource allocation. Due to this increased accountability, the public and government officials can be confident in the department's ability to operate efficiently and meet community needs and expectations.

Accreditation also promotes Community Oriented Policing, creating a forum in which police and citizens work together to prevent and control crime. This partnership helps citizens understand the challenges confronting the law enforcement community and gives the law enforcement community a clear direction concerning community needs and expectations. This process does not end, as every three years verification will need to be conducted to ensure the agency remains in compliance with the standards and practices established. Now that we have achieved accredited status, both the community and the agency can take even more pride in their department, knowing that it represents the very best in policing.