Accreditation

The United States Capitol Police (USCP) was awarded its sixth reaccreditation award from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2017. As a part of the reaccreditation process, the Department also received the CALEA Gold Standard Assessment (GSA). CALEA uses the GSA to distinguish model agencies who have demonstrated an enhanced delivery of public safety services through the effective use of, and compliance to, the standards representing the best practices within the law enforcement industry.  In addition, the USCP was recognized in November 2017 for having been accredited for more than 15 or more continuous years with the enhanced Certificate of Meritorious Accreditation.

The effort to attain accreditation began in May 1999, when the USCP signed a contract with CALEA to enhance the Department through the implementation of best practices. The attainment of this long-term goal, and “critical success factor” in the Strategic Plan, is a testament to the dedication of employees at all levels within the USCP. In November 2002, the USCP received its initial accreditation from CALEA.

The USCP continues to ensure that both our policies and practices reflect the professionalism and excellence required to maintain compliance with CALEA standards, and to continue as a leader in the law enforcement community. The accreditation process requires the constant monitoring and periodic updating of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with all applicable standards. This, in conjunction with other accreditation requirements, has enhanced the delivery of services to the Congressional community and improved the organization, administration, and operations of the USCP.