Fair Lawn Police Department Earns Accreditation

The Fair Lawn Police Department was given its accreditation by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police during the borough council meeting Tuesday.

Fewer than one-third of the approximately 470 law enforcement agencies eligible for accreditation have earned the distinction, according to Harry Delgado from the NJSACOP. 

The status marks Fair Lawn Police as being among the best departments in the state because of their commitment to training and discipline, Delgado said. That distinction pays off, as accredited departments typically have fewer liability claims, lower insurance premiums and can better defend themselves against lawsuits, he said.

They will have to undergo a rigorous two-day onsite assessment every three years to maintain their accredited status.

Acting Police Chief Glen Cauwels said it had been a lot of work to gain the accreditation, but it was worth the effort. He thanked Lt. Brian LaRosa, the department's new accreditation officer, Lt. Ronald Patterson, Capt. Robert Kneer and all their officers who helped earn the honor.