Pampa Police Department Receives “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” from the Texas Law Enforcement Recognition Program

On August 3, 2008, the Pampa Police Department received the award of “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program. Begun in 2007, the Recognition Program evaluates a Police Department's compliance with over 150 Best Business Practices for Texas Law Enforcement. These Best Practices were carefully developed by Texas Law Enforcement professionals to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service and the protection of individual's rights. These Best Practices cover all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, vehicle pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.

This voluntary process required the Pampa Police Department to conduct a critical self-review of the agency's policies, procedures, facilities and operations. Beginning in May of 2007, the department begin the lengthy process to become a “Recognized” Law Enforcement Agency” by preparing proofs of compliance for each of the Texas Law Enforcement Best Business Practices. Upon completion of the internal review, an outside audit and review was requested. This final on-site review took place on July 8 – 9, 2008. The on-site review is conducted by trained Police Chiefs from other areas of our state. The result of this review was then sent to the Texas Police Chiefs Association's Recognition Committee for final analysis and decision to award “Recognized” status.

On August 3, the department was notified that it had been awarded the coveted “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” award. Pampa becomes only the 6th agency in the state to be so recognized. The Pampa Police Department has always considered itself to be one of the best in the state. This process provided for an independent review of the department's operations and should assure the citizens of Pampa that its Police Department is conforming to the current state of the art in law enforcement.

The actual presentation of the award will take place at the Pampa City Commission Meeting on August 26, 2008 at 4:00 P.M. The department will also be recognized at the Texas Police Chiefs Association annual conference in April.

More information a description of the program may be viewed on the Texas Police Chiefs Association website at http://www.texaspolicechiefs.org .