The Batesville Police Department has achieved Tier 1 Advanced accreditation through the Arkansas Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP), becoming one of only 25 municipal police departments in the state to reach this milestone. Out of 214 municipal police agencies in Arkansas, fewer than two dozen hold this distinguished certification, which recognizes adherence to professional excellence.
To earn ALEAP accreditation, departments must comply with numerous rigorous operational standards focused on areas such as use-of-force policies, officer training, evidence management, internal accountability, and community engagement. This independent designation not only validates that Batesville’s police operations align with best practices but also provides assurance to residents of the department’s fairness and transparency. Municipalities achieving this accreditation benefit from reduced liability risks and the establishment of clear, standardized procedures for their officers.
Batesville Police Chief John Scarbrough credited the achievement to a collective effort by the entire department, with specific praise for Capt. Fred Friar, who oversaw the department’s comprehensive review process. On Tuesday, Sept. 8, Chief Scarbrough and Mayor Rick Elumbaugh presented Friar with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his leadership in navigating the rigorous steps required for accreditation.
“Achieving ALEAP accreditation reflects our agency’s dedication to serving Batesville with honor, efficiency, and transparency,” said Scarbrough. “This accomplishment required a massive effort from our entire staff, and I am especially grateful to Captain Fred Friar for his exceptional leadership throughout this rigorous process.”
Formal recognition for the accreditation will take place on Sept. 23, when representatives from ALEAP present the award to the department during the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police Conference.
The Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police manages the ALEAP program, which aims to establish statewide standards for law enforcement operations and foster professionalism among agencies. Batesville’s accomplishment places it among a small but growing group of accredited departments striving to create safer and more transparent communities across the state.