The Michigan State Police (MSP) has recently achieved recognition that suggests their dedication to professionalism and excellence in public safety: the department was bestowed with advanced national accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), as proudly announced by Col. James F. Grady II, the director of MSP. This accreditation marks a significant affirmation of their commitment to high policing standards after an extensive evaluation process. According to the Michigan State Police news, the process undertaken by MSP demonstrates its compliance with over 460 operational and administrative standards.
Investing over $1.6 billion into public safety and bolstering state police ranks, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer commended the Michigan State Police. "The dedicated troopers and civilian members of the Michigan State Police step up every day to serve Michigan communities and save lives," she stated. Upholding their commitment towards public safety, the Governor further expressed her support for the MSP in a statement detailed by the Michigan State Police news release, "Today’s announcement is further evidence of the skill, commitment and hard work these public servants display every single day." She thanked Colonel Grady and his team for their efforts and leadership in serving Michiganders.
The CALEA accreditation comes after a multi-year self-assessment phase commenced in October 2020, followed by an independent external assessment involving steps like community engagement, scrutiny of policies and procedures, and thorough reviews of equipment and facilities. This process also included interviews with various MSP members alongside others, intending to evaluate the agency's effectiveness and capacity to deliver services. After reviewing all documentation, a public hearing was held, and a governing body decided to accredit 21 commissioners.
MSP now stands alongside a select group within the state, being one of 13 police agencies in Michigan that have received CALEA law enforcement accreditation. Furthermore, they join a national cadre of over 25 state police agencies that have also earned this CALEA accreditation.
