PURCELLVILLE, Va. May 12, 2017 — The Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPSC) unanimously voted to award the Purcellville Police Department with its second re-accreditation certificate at a meeting held on May 11, 2017, in Warrenton, VA. Accreditation through VLEPSC is an important signal to the community of a department’s focus on high standards, accountability, and professionalism. The accreditation process occurs every four years, although it demands rigorous adherence these standards and solid record keeping in everyday activities.
The accreditation team was led by Chief Milton Franklin of the Bridgewater College Campus Police and Safety Department. At the hearing before the VLEPSC Executive Board, Chief Franklin highly praised the professionalism of the Police Department and its progress in adhering to the standards of law enforcement. Chief Franklin and Executive Board members also noted that while the Purcellville Police Department is small and its officers are responsible for many different roles, they show commitment in their work and are to be commended for their quality service to the community.
Chief Cynthia McAlister of the Purcellville Police Department thanked the VLEPSC accreditation team for their detailed inspection of the Department’s policies and practices. This attention to detail ensures the Department focuses on adherence to policies and best practices, ensures the officers maintain an effective work environment, and ensures that the safety of the community and officers is paramount in operations. “Accreditation is always a learning process, and we learned a lot from the site team,” Chief McAlister said. “I am proud of our Department and officers who commit themselves fully to public safety and the highest of law enforcement standards.”
Chief McAlister specifically recognizes Corporal Richard Costello (Ret.), who served as the accreditation manager during this process. Nearing the end of his twelve year tenure and facing mandatory retirement, Corporal Costello faithfully dedicated himself to ensure the success of the Department in re-accreditation.
Mayor Kwasi A. Fraser said, “On behalf of the Town Council, our citizens, and business community I commend our Police Department on receiving re-accreditation from the VLEPSC Executive Board. This re-accreditation reflects our Police Department’s commitment to the safety and welfare of our community, and for that we all celebrate this major accomplishment.” A formal recognition by the Town Council will be held at a Council Meeting at a later date.
