Best Practices Recognition

ANNUAL REPORTS FILED

Recognized status is awarded for a four-year period.  Annual reports are due in Years 1, 2, and 3 for continued compliance. Year 4 requires a full review.

In September 2024, the City of Sherman Police Department achieved re-accreditation with the Texas Police Chiefs Association Accreditation Program.

What is the Law Enforcement Agency Best Practices Recognition Program?
The Law Enforcement Recognition Program is a voluntary process where police agencies in Texas prove their compliance with 168 Texas Law Enforcement Best Practices. These Best Practices were carefully developed by Texas Law Enforcement professionals to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service, the reduction of risk, and the protection of individual rights. While similar in nature to the national accreditation program, the Best Practices Recognition Program is easier to administer, lower in cost, and is designed specifically for Texas Law Enforcement. The Texas Legislature demands a great deal of professional law enforcement in Texas and the Best Practices were specifically designed to aid Texas agencies in meeting those demands and providing the best quality of service to the people of our State. Since its inception in 2006, over 100 Texas Law Enforcement Agencies have been Recognized and many more are currently in the process to become Recognized Agencies. While members of the Texas Police Chiefs Association recognizes and supports the national accreditation program, The Texas Best Practices Recognition Program has clearly become the new Gold Standard for Texas Law Enforcement!

How do you get to be “Recognized?”
An agency that has been awarded “Recognized” status has undertaken a careful internal review of its policies, procedures, equipment, facilities, and operations. Most agencies find that some adjustment and revisions of their policies and procedures may be necessary. The agency then submits proof of their compliance with the standards (usually electronically) to independent assessors. After an independent review of their written documents and proofs, a team of assessors is sent to the agency to review their operations and facilities, and to interview the Department’s staff. A Final Report outlining the findings is sent to the Recognition Committee. The Committee reviews the findings and votes whether or not to award “Recognized” status.