Beginning October 15th, the ITALY Police Department will begin a lengthy process to become a “Recognized” Law Enforcement Agency by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program.

Begun in 2007, the Recognition Program evaluates a Police Department’s compliance with over 150 Best Business Practices for Texas Law Enforcement. These Best Practices were carefully developed over a two year period by Texas Law Enforcement professionals to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service and the protection of individual’s rights. These Best Practices cover all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, vehicle pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.

This voluntary process requires a critical self-review of the agency’s policies, procedures, facilities and operations. The department will prepare proofs of compliance for each of the Texas Best Business Practices for Law Enforcement and when complete, will request outside audit and review. The result of this review is sent to the Texas Police Chief’s Association’s Recognition Committee for final analysis and decision to award “Recognized” status.

The ITALY Police Department has always considered itself to be one of the best in the area. This process allows an independent review of the department’s operations and will assure the citizens of ITALY that its Police Department is conforming to the current state of the art in law enforcement.

The Italy Police Department applied for and received a $500.00 grant from the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool for the first year’s cost of the program.

More information a description of the program may be viewed on the Texas Police Chiefs Association website at http://www.texaspolicechiefs.org.

Chief Diron Hill will be available Wednesday, October 12th, from 1pm to 5pm for telephone or video interviews or comments. Please contact Chief Hill’s office at (972) 483-6414.