A-State Police Renew National Law Enforcement Accreditation

The Arkansas State University Police Department (UPD) has once again achieved national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). The honor, officially awarded on July 25, recognizes the department’s adherence to high standards in public safety practices and community engagement.

This accreditation, part of CALEA’s Law Enforcement program, involves a rigorous evaluation process. According to the university, the process included a multi-year self-assessment phase followed by a detailed site-based assessment of UPD’s operations, policies, equipment, and facilities. Chief Randy Martin, Captain Billy Branch, and Corporal Haylee Chambers represented the department at CALEA’s Omaha, Nebraska conference to receive the award.

“Accreditation is a voluntary process our agency proudly participates in to provide A-State and the Jonesboro community with the best police services possible,” Chief Martin said. “Our team of law enforcement professionals continually strive to adhere to the highest standards of professionally recognized public safety service delivery.”

The award presentation took place during CALEA’s celebration banquet. CALEA President Matthew Packard and Executive Director Craig Hartley presented the accreditation certificate, which signifies compliance with CALEA’s comprehensive standards and ongoing commitment to excellence.

This marks the fifth CALEA accreditation for the Arkansas State University Police Department, which initially achieved the status in 2012. The four-year accreditation cycle includes annual web-based file reviews and a detailed site-based assessment in the fourth year, ensuring continuous improvement and compliance.

CALEA was established in 1979 through the collaborative efforts of as the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Sheriffs’ Association, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the Police Executive Research Forum. Its goal is to develop and maintain globally recognized public safety standards, helping law enforcement agencies achieve operational excellence.

“This award of accreditation does not come easy,” said Packard. “Agencies must go through a rigorous review and evaluation of their organization and then implement the necessary policy and procedure changes. By voluntarily choosing to seek CALEA accreditation, the agency commits to an ongoing review of adherence to CALEA’s standards.”

Packard added that communities served by CALEA-accredited agencies can trust that these organizations are delivering services under the highest recognized standards.

The Arkansas State University Police Department continues to be a leader in public safety both on its campus and in the Jonesboro community, striving to promote trust, accountability, and excellence through accreditation and service.