Accreditation Team invites public comments on Florida Highway Patrol.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News 

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is up for re-accreditation status, meaning a team of assessors from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA) will arrive on November 8, 2022, to examine all aspects of FHP's policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services. As part of the re-accreditation process, the assessment team is inviting the public and agency members to provide comments on Florida Highway Patrol.

The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar agencies that will review written materials, interview individuals, conduct office visits, and conduct other tasks to observe compliance by the agency. Many of the standards are critical to life, health, and safety issues.

According to a release, verification by the Commission is part of a voluntary process to gain or maintain accreditation – a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence. Once the assessment is complete, the assessors report back to the full Commission, who will determine if the agency is to receive accredited status. 

“Maintaining accreditation enhances the Florida Highway Patrol’s ability to effectively provide law enforcement services to the citizens of Florida,” said Colonel Gene Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Additionally, accreditation increases public confidence in the policies and procedures of the Florida Highway Patrol.”

Once Florida Highway Patrol receives accreditation status, it is valid for three years. 

For more information regarding CFA, or for persons wishing to offer written comments about FHP’s ability to meet the standards of accreditation, send written correspondence via mail to CFA, P.O. Box 1489, Tallahassee, Florida 32302 or via email at flaccreditation@fdle.state.fl.us.