By Melanie Ruberti

Melanie.ruberti@lagrangenews.com

LaGRANGE – The LaGrange Police Department is making sure to dot all their “I’s” and cross their “T’s”, as they prepare for a rigorous evaluation.

Assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) will arrive at LPD headquarters on Monday, April 10.

The team will compile an evaluation on the police department and present their findings before the CALEA commission.

The commission ultimately determines whether the LaGrange Police Department will keep their CALEA accreditation.

CALEA assessors will examine LPD’s policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services. The evaluation includes reviewing written materials and interviewing LPD staff members.

Evaluators also want feedback from local citizens.

A public hearing will take place in the City Council Chambers at 208 Ridley Avenue on Wednesday, April 12. It will begin at 6 p.m.

Comments are limited to 10 minutes and must address the ability of the LaGrange Police Department to comply with CALEA standards.

People can view a copy of those standards by contacting Sgt. Karen Sanders at 706-883-2603.

For people unable to attend the public forum, there are other ways leave comments for the CALEA assessors.

The team may be contacted on Wednesday, April 12, between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. at 706-883-2649.

Written comments may be sent by email at Calea@calea.org. Please put “LaGrange Police Department” in the subject line.

The police department initially received the prestigious law enforcement honor in July of 1999.

Anyone wanting more information about the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies may visit their website www.calea.org.

Melanie Ruberti is a reporter with LaGrange Daily News. She can be reached at 706-884-7311, ext. 2156.