On March 21st, 2014, the Italy Police Department received the award of “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program. Begun in 2006, the Recognition Program evaluates a Police Department’s compliance with over 165 Best Business Practices for Texas Law Enforcement. These Best Practices were carefully developed 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 required the Italy Police Department to conduct a critical self-review of the agency’s policies, procedures, facilities and operations. Beginning in October 11th, 2012, the department begin the lengthy process to become a “Recognized” Law Enforcement Agency” by preparing proofs of compliance for each of the Texas Law Enforcement Best Business Practices. Upon completion of the internal review, an outside audit and review was requested. This final on-site review took place on March 17th and 18th. The on-site review is conducted by trained Police Chiefs from other areas of our state. The result of this review was then sent to the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Recognition Committee for final analysis and decision to award “Recognized” status.

On March 21st, the department was notified that it had been awarded the coveted “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” award. Italy becomes only the 97th agency in the state and only the 2nd agency in Ellis County to be so recognized. The Italy Police Department has always considered itself to be one of the best in the state. This process provided for an independent review of the department’s operations and should assure the citizens of Italy that its Police Department is conforming to the current state of the art in law enforcement.

The actual presentation of the award will take place at the May 12th Italy City Council Meeting at 6:00pm. The department will also be recognized at the Texas Police Chiefs Association annual conference in April.

More information a description of the program may be viewed on the Texas Police Chiefs Association website.

Chief Diron Hill will be available today and tomorrow, March 24th and March 25th, from 8am to 5pm for telephone or video interviews or comments. Please contact Chief Hill office at (972) 483-6414 ext. 203.