Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


Public comment is being sought as part of the Howell Police Department’s accreditation process.

A team of assessors from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC) will arrive on Tuesday to examine all aspects of the Department’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

The Howell Police Department was the first in the county to achieve accreditation, which is an ongoing process. Accreditation is valid for a three-year period during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to its continued compliance with those standards under which it was initially accredited.

As part of this final On-Site Assessment, employees and members of the general public are invited to provide comments to the Assessment Team. The Howell Police Department must comply with 105 standards in order to achieve accredited status.

Chief Scott Mannor stated “Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs.”

The assessment team will review written materials, interview agency members, and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed. Once the assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full Commission, which will then decide if the agency is to be granted accredited status.

Comments can be done by telephone or email. The public may call 517-338-9021 on October 25th, between the hours of 10am and 12pm. Email comments can be sent to Captain Matt Kelleher at mkelleher@cityofhowell.org.

Telephone comments are limited to five minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with the Commission’s standards. A copy of the standards are available for inspection at the Howell Police Department, 611 E. Grand River, Howell, MI. Those with questions can contact Captain Matt Kelleher at 517-546-1330 x 6781.

Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the Howell Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation is requested to email the Accreditation Program manager at nrossow@michiganpolicechiefs.org or write the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Pkwy, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864.