The Metropolitan Police Department’s Training Academy will undergo an assessment next week as part of the process to renew its accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The academy has maintained CALEA accreditation since 2011. The review will evaluate whether it continues to meet the agency’s training standards.
"Our department’s academy offers instruction and guidance to hundreds of trainees and veteran officers throughout the year," Chief John Drake said in a statement. "Incorporating CALEA standards into what we do ensures that our officers receive the best training to keep our city safe." According to Metro Nashville, the review process set to begin on Monday will include scrutiny of the academy's policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services by retired Bureau Commander Randy Nichols, a seasoned professional hailing from the Greeneville, North Carolina, Police Department.
To achieve reaccreditation, the MNPD Academy must meet 161 criteria set by CALEA. The four-year process includes maintaining electronic records for annual reviews and concludes with an on-site assessment by a CALEA-appointed assessor.
As part of the accreditation process, CALEA has established a public access portal for community feedback regarding the agency’s services. The portal is intended solely for comments related to the agency’s performance and does not serve as a mechanism for reporting incidents. After completing his evaluation, Assessor Nichols will submit a report to the full Commission, which will then determine whether the MNPD Academy qualifies for reaccreditation.
