On July 31, 2010 the Village of Huntley Police Department was awarded full Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) was created in 1979 through the combined efforts of four major Law Enforcement organizations: the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, National Sheriff’s Association, and the Police Executive Research Forum united to address issues of accountability, integrity, liability, performance, community partnership, and to elevate law enforcement to professional standing and affirm the quality of police services.
In the fall of 2006, the Village of Huntley committed itself to seeking accredited status through the Commission by hiring a full time Law Enforcement Accreditation Manager, Gary Wigman, former Deputy Chief and Accreditation Manager for the City of McHenry.
In order to accomplish these task members of the Department, under the direction of Chief John Perkins, underwent a three year process of self-evaluation that included a total revision of all policies and procedures, department restructuring and extensive training to be in compliance with the 463 standards set by the Commission. In April of 2010 the policies, procedures, facilities, equipment, personnel and three years proofs of compliance with these standards were inspected by a team of out-of-state assessors who submitted their recommendation to the Commission for review.
On July 31st members of the Department appeared before the Commission in a hearing to review the results of the on-site inspection at their International Conference. Accreditation was granted by the Commission at this hearing and awarded at a banquet that evening. Upon acceptance the Huntley Police Department became only the second agency in McHenry County to obtain this coveted award.
The period of accreditation is three years. The Department will seek reaccreditation in 2013. During this time the Department must submit annual reports that document continuing compliance with applicable standards. Reaccreditation occurs at the end of the three years, pending another successful on-site assessment and hearing before the Commission.
Gary Wigman
Accreditation Manager
847-515-5356
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