The Winter Haven Police Department received its accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) on Saturday.
The accreditation process requires that the Winter Haven Police Department meets the requirements of a highly regarded and broadly recognized body of law enforcement, which is internationally recognized.
Accreditation embodies the precepts of community-oriented policing. It creates a forum in which police and citizens work together to prevent and control challenges confronting law enforcement and provides clear direction about community expectations.
Chief Charlie Bird, Deputy Chief David Brannan, City Manager Deric Feacher, Mayor Brad Dantzler and Accreditation Manager Christina Barlow accepted the award.
