The Passaic County Sheriff’s Office has received the coveted New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police accreditation, announced Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik.

Berdnik said the accreditation was obtained after the association examined all aspects of his department that included law enforcement policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services.

“Verification that the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office meets the Commission’s “best practice” standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” Berdnik said. “I’m proud of all the members of the Sheriff’s Office involved in obtaining this important accomplishment. The comprehensive review of the Sheriff’s office Law enforcement Division, culminated with a multi-day on site visit and an opportunity for the public to participate in the process.”

The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police accreditation (NJSACOP) makes it its mission to promote high ethical and professional standards in law enforcement agencies throughout New Jersey.

Berdnik thanked his executive staff singling out Chief John Lazzara for working tirelessly to obtain the accreditation. NJSACOP compiled with 100 standards to obtain the status, Berdnik said.

“Accreditation will now result in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy, and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to the County’s needs,” the Sheriff said.

The accreditation is valid for a three-year period. To remain accredited the Sheriff’s Office has to continuously compile evidence that it meets the NJSACOP standards.

Berdnik said the Sheriff’s Office will be formally awarded the sought after accreditation at the next Passaic County Freeholder Board meeting.

“Since becoming Sheriff five years ago, I have placed a special focus on increasing training and accreditation credentials in all divisions of the Sheriff’s Office,” Berdnik said. “The higher professionalism of the department increases efficiency and improves the safety of the residents of Passaic County.”