Public Safety earns third accreditation status

JOHNSON CITY (Jan. 22, 2021) – The Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation (TLEA) Program has granted a third accreditation status to the Department of Public Safety at East Tennessee State University.

To achieve accreditation with TLEA, an agency voluntarily submits to a three-year process of enhancing its professionalism and effectiveness utilizing 160 law enforcement standards and participating in a thorough on-site assessment. The standards evaluate the agency’s policies, which address a variety of areas including organizational, operational and budget management practices. The program is intended to encourage cooperation, recognize professional standing, develop professional services and ensure public safety throughout the State of Tennessee. The TLEA program is a valuable and cost-effective way to enhance overall agency effectiveness and professionalism.

The ETSU Department of Public Safety successfully accomplished TLEA accreditation by meeting criteria that measured the professionalism and organizational and overall readiness in law enforcement policy and procedures.

“The standard of excellence that is met through this process is to be admired,” stated Troy Lane, president of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP). “We are proud to recognize the hard work of the ETSU Department of Public Safety, its staff and community leaders.”

Deputy Chief Mark Tipton, who led the accreditation process at ETSU while serving as interim chief of police, said he is “proud of every individual whose work contributes to upholding the standards and policies that allow our department to operate effectively and, above all, keep all our campus communities safe in Johnson City and beyond.”

The TLEA program was created under the direction and authority of the TACP, which supports and endorses the continued improvement of law enforcement and emergency communications operations. This program provides a framework for Tennessee law enforcement agencies to have equal access to effective and comprehensive policies that enhance the professionalism of law enforcement and the safety of our communities.

The TLEA Accreditation status represents a significant professional achievement and acknowledges the successful implementation of written directives, policies, and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective. It takes commitment, dedication, and hard work from the agency head, agency personnel and community leaders to meet the standards prescribed by the program.

Cesar Garcia, named chief of police and director of Public Safety last fall, echoed the importance of TLEA in supporting long-term goals for the department.

“This accreditation sets the stage for continued success for ETSU Public Safety. It is a testament to the dedicated officers and staff who believe in ETSU and remain committed to protecting our students, faculty, staff and visitors and working collectively with our law enforcement partners in the community.”