Milton Police Department Earns State Certification

Milton Police Department earns State Certification
Less than 15 percent of agencies earn GACP certification

MILTON, GA., Aug. 5, 2010 - The City of Milton Police Department has achieved State Certification from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP), a feat accomplished by less than 15 percent of eligible state agencies.

"This certification has been the culmination of three years of hard work, pretty much the entire life of the department thus far," said Milton Police Chief Deborah Harrell. "It is something that Milton's citizens can be proud of, knowing their police force ranks among the best in the state so early in its existence."

According to the GACP, State Certification is neither easy nor simple. It requires compliance with a set of policies covering eight distinct areas of law enforcement: the agency's role; organization and management; personnel; legal; operations; support services; communications; and holding areas.
In addition, State Certification standards are continuously under review, meaning Milton will be re-audited every three years to ensure a top-notch organization.

"The achievement of State Certification is confirmation that your agency's practices are consistent with progressive, professional standards," said Frank V. Rotondo, Executive Director of GACP.
The certification can also mean savings for taxpayers in the form of state-mandated insurance payments, as well. In 2006 GACP partnered with the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency (GIRMA) to provide special rate-reduction incentives to State Certified municipalities that have achieved and maintained their status. These rate reductions can decrease liability premiums by up to 20 percent.

Harrell said the department is now setting its sights on National Accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This gold standard of international law enforcement includes on-site reviews of more than 450 standards in all areas of public safety service, including operations, management, technical services and homeland security/critical incidents.


Incorporated on December 1, 2006, the City of Milton is a distinctive community that embraces small-town life and heritage while preserving and enhancing the city's rural character. The City of Milton is committed to maintaining the unique quality of life for its constituents while efficiently delivering essential services to residents and businesses in an interactive community environment. For more information, visit www.cityofmiltonga.us, or call 678-242-2500.