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Grand Prairie police receive reaccreditation from Texas Police Chiefs Association
Summary
The Grand Prairie Police Department was formally recognized for reaccreditation by the Texas Police Chiefs Association after assessors found the department met or exceeded 173 standards based on Texas law and best practices.
The Grand Prairie City Council and police leadership accepted a formal presentation recognizing the Grand Prairie Police Department’s reaccreditation by the Texas Police Chiefs Association.
Steve Sanford, chief of police in Bridgeport and accreditation program chair for the association, told the council the reaccreditation follows an exhaustive assessment process involving two trained assessors who reviewed facility operations, rode with officers in the field, and compiled a report for a statewide committee of chiefs. Sanford said agencies must meet or exceed 173 standards—based on Texas law, court decisions and law enforcement best practices—to qualify. He added fewer than 20% of Texas law enforcement agencies are accredited, and fewer still are reaccredited.
Grand Prairie Police Chief (introduced at the meeting as Chief Szesny) invited Sanford to present the reaccreditation certificate. Sanford said the award signals to elected officials, the city manager and residents that the department operates in accordance with current professional standards. Council members and attendees applauded the department’s work during the presentation.
The presentation was ceremonial and did not require formal council action beyond acceptance of the recognition. Council members remarked on the department’s transparency and community engagement during and after the presentation.
