By Todd Duncan, Law Enforcement and Safety Specialist
Achieving agency accreditation through the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice is more than an exercise in best practices — it is a statutory requirement under Nebraska Revised Statute §81-1414.18. This mandate requires that every law enforcement agency be accredited in a manner approved by the Commission. Agencies must meet prescribed criteria, including the adoption of written policies and other requirements determined by the Commission. Non-compliance not only risks exclusion from important funding sources, such as loans, grants, or donations administered by the Commission, but also exposes agencies to increased legal liabilities and public scrutiny. As of today, roughly two-thirds of sheriff’s offices in the NIRMA pool have been accredited.
Risk and Liability Implications
Accreditation demonstrates an agency’s commitment to meeting basic, nationally recognized standards. By ensuring that policies and procedures are aligned with best practices, accredited agencies benefit in several ways:
- Reduced Liability: Consistent, documented policies and procedures lower the risk of lawsuits and allegations of misconduct. Courts may view accredited agencies as having met rigorous standards, thereby mitigating liability exposure.
- Enhanced Public Trust: Accreditation enhances credibility, thereby fostering stronger community relations and confidence in law enforcement practices.
- Financial Benefits: Only accredited agencies are eligible for state-administered funding, grants, and other financial support.
Without accreditation, agencies risk not only legal and financial consequences but also damage to their reputation, which can further erode public trust and cooperation.
Steps to Achieve Accreditation in Nebraska
- Application and Self-Assessment: Agencies must first submit an application/submission cover letter form and the required documentation to the Commission. This process includes a simple self-assessment against established accreditation standards.
- Policy and Procedure Alignment: Agencies are required to adopt certain basic written policies and procedures as dictated by statute and the Commission. This includes guidelines on use of force, training, and internal accountability. Model policies that satisfy Nebraska accreditation requirements are available through NIRMA.
- Data Submission: Agencies are required to show compliance with data submission requirements such as traffic stops, deaths in custody, use of force, etc. Depending on the report, submission may be required monthly, bimonthly, or annually.
- Commission Review: The Commission reviews the agency accreditation application packet and determines whether the agency meets the necessary standards for accreditation.
- Maintenance and Reassessment: Once accredited, agencies must continuously maintain compliance and participate in periodic reviews to ensure standards are upheld.
By meeting these requirements, Nebraska law enforcement agencies not only comply with statutory mandates but also ensure operational excellence, ultimately reducing risk and liability while enhancing community service.
Visit the Commission’s Agency Accreditation Center website for more detailed information, including the Commission’s Accreditation Program Manual (step-by-step guide on the accreditation process). Questions regarding accreditation may be directed to [email protected].
For questions or more information on training opportunities, contact NIRMA’s Law Enforcement and Safety Specialist Todd Duncan at (402) 742-9220 or [email protected].
