Maplewood Police Department Seeks Public Feedback Ahead Of Accreditation Review

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Maplewood residents will soon have an opportunity to share feedback about their police department as it undergoes an accreditation review.

The Maplewood Police Department announced that assessors from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police will examine its policies, procedures, management, operations and support services Tuesday, Oct. 13, according to a press release provided to Patch.

As part of the review, employees and members of the public can call 973-558-0453 between 10 and 11 a.m. Tuesday to provide comments. Phone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the department's compliance with accreditation standards.

Residents can also email comments to anelson@maplewoodnj.gov.

Chief Niheema Malloy said the voluntary accreditation process allows assessors to determine whether the Maplewood Police Department meets established best-practice standards, a recognition of professional excellence in law enforcement.

According to the Maplewood Police Department, assessors will review written materials, interview department members and visit offices and other locations to evaluate compliance with accreditation standards.

Once the assessment is complete, the team will submit its findings to the full New Jersey Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, which will determine whether the Maplewood Police Department qualifies for accredited status.

If accreditation is granted, it will remain valid for three years. During that period, the department must submit annual reports confirming its continued compliance with the standards under which it received accreditation.

For questions about accreditation standards, residents can contact Police Officer Andrew Nelson at 973-761-7882.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.