The Swampscott Police Department has been officially recognized by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission (MPAC) as one of only 122 fully accredited police agencies in the state. This prestigious recognition, awarded on October 29, underscores the department’s commitment to adhering to best practices in law enforcement.
Accreditation Process and Significance
The MPAC accreditation is a voluntary, self-initiated process that helps police agencies meet established professional standards. To achieve accreditation, the police department first conducts an internal assessment to ensure compliance with MPAC’s rigorous criteria. Following this, it undergoes a thorough evaluation by assessors appointed by MPAC.
Accreditation signifies that the department is committed to maintaining high professional standards and is willing to be evaluated regularly by external assessors. This process also requires departments to develop written directives and procedures for their personnel, ensuring that they implement policies in line with best practices.
Police Chief Ruben Quesada emphasized the teamwork involved in achieving this milestone. He acknowledged the contributions of his department’s accreditation team, which includes Sgt. Matt MacDonald, Sgt. Steven Luck, Sgt. Brendan Reen, and Capt. Joe Kable. Quesada noted the considerable effort that goes into the accreditation process, stating, “Accreditation alone could take one full-time employee working 40 hours at least six months to complete.”
A Commitment to Excellence
Quesada expressed personal significance in receiving this accreditation, highlighting that it represents more than just a title. “This award is much more than just empty words stating that our policies and procedures match best practices and national standards,” he remarked. “We had to show and prove to an independent, outside organization that our actions meet our words.”
Out of the 351 communities in Massachusetts, only 122 have achieved this “gold standard” of accreditation. Quesada believes that this recognition reflects the department’s dedication to providing world-class policing. “We owe this standard of professionalism to our beloved community to be the kind of world-class policing organization they rightfully deserve,” he stated.
The Swampscott Police Department’s achievement highlights the importance of commitment to excellence and transparency in law enforcement, setting a benchmark for other agencies within the state.