Morehead State University's Police Department was awarded its fifth accreditation by the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police
Morehead State University’s Police Department has received a five-year certificate of accreditation from the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police (KACP.)
It is the fifth five-year accreditation for the MSUPD. Other accreditation came in 1997, 2002, 2007 and 2012.
“We are very pleased,” said Merrell Harrison, MSU police chief. “This accomplishment, which is the result of the efforts of the whole department, is a demonstration of the professionalism of this law enforcement unit.”
“Accreditation represents our agency’s commitment to meeting all professional standard set forth by KACP, and helps to maintain a high degree of effectiveness and professionalism.”
The department was recognized at the KACP board’s annual meeting, which was attended by Harrison and Lt. Jarred Hunt.
“This is another example of the University’s commitment to providing a safe living and learning environment for our students, faculty and staff, and campus visitors,” said Russell F. Mast, interim vice president for student success. “I commend the officers and staff for their diligence and teamwork.”
The KACP accreditation program is intended to provide law enforcement agencies of the Commonwealth with an avenue for demonstrating that they meet commonly accepted professional standards for efficient and effective operations.
Law Enforcement executives who choose to have their agencies accredited under this program have examined all aspects of their operations. They have made conscious decisions about policies and procedures that fit the law enforcement requirements of their jurisdictions and have implemented those policies and trained their employees in their use.
MSU completed its self-assessment before experiencing a detailed, critical evaluation by an on-site team. After reviewing the team’s final report, the executive board nominated the University for the certification.
Accreditation reflects that the agency was carefully measured against an established set of standards and has met or exceeded professionally accepted practices in law enforcement.
MSUPD has 16 full-time officers and 10 support staff.
Additional information is available by contacting the MSUPD at 606-783-2035.
Pictured above, from left, are: Chief Brandon Barnhill, Paducah Police Department; Chief Merrell Harrison, MSUPD; Lt. Jarred Hunt, MSUPD; and James Pendergraff, executive director of the KACP.
