In this undated photo, Marquette Police Department officers respond to a situation at Marquette City Hall. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE — An assessment team from the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission will examine all aspects of the Marquette Police Department policies, procedures, management, operations and services on Thursday.

“Verification by the team that the Marquette Police Department meets the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission’s ‘best practice’ standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” said MPD Chief Ryan Grim.

As part of this final on-site assessment, employees and area residents are invited to provide comments to the MLEAC assessment team. To do so, call (906) 869-0476 on Thursday between 1 and 2 p.m. Comments via email can be sent to jrink@marquettemi.gov.

Phone calls 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 police department at 300 W. Baraga Ave. Contact Lt. John Rink at (906) 228-0400.

Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the MPD’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation is requested to email the accreditation program manager at rwiles@michiganpolicechiefs.org or write the MLEAC at 3474 Alaiedon Parkway, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864.

The MPD must comply with 108 standards to achieve accredited status.

“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,” Grim said.

The Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police deputy director is Ron Wiles, the retired Grand Blanc police chief.

“The assessment team in composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar Michigan law enforcement agencies,” Wiles said. “The assessors 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.”

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.

The MACP, through its MLEAC, is the legitimate authority and accreditation agency in Michigan.

For more information regarding the MLEAC, write the commission at MACP, Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 3474 Alaiedon Parkway, Suite 600, Okemos, MI 48864 or email to rwiles@michiganpolicechiefs.org.