North Bay Village Police Department Earns Prestigious Accreditation

North Bay Village, FL – The North Bay Village Police Department has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning initial accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation, Inc. (CFA). This prestigious accreditation recognizes the department’s commitment to professional excellence and adherence to the highest standards in law enforcement.

“The journey to attain accreditation has been extremely challenging but incredibly rewarding, and there has not been a more important initiative for the Police Department to complete during my administration,” said Chief Carlos Noriega. “This tremendous milestone accomplishment demonstrates our agency’s unwavering commitment and relentless desire to be considered among the best, not just on a local level but also on a state level.”

In Florida alone, there are approximately 400 agencies, with just 115 having achieved accredited status from the CFA. The North Bay Village Police Department has now joined this elite group. This marks a historic first for the Village as its force achieves accreditation status for the very first time.

The Mayor, Commission, and residents of North Bay Village are extremely proud to have an accredited law enforcement agency serving their community. Accreditation assures residents that their police department adheres to the highest levels of professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct. It represents a significant achievement that will enhance public safety services and instill greater confidence in the capabilities of the police force.

“Achieving this accreditation is a testament to the excellent police force we have serving and protecting our community. I commend Chief Noriega and his entire department for this remarkable accomplishment and their continued pursuit of excellence.” said Mayor Brent Latham. “Residents can rest assured that our police meet or exceed all standards to guarantee their safety and well-being.”

An assessment team comprising experienced law enforcement professionals conducted an in-depth, three-day review of the department’s policies, procedures, and operations from March 19-21, 2024. The assessment team found the North Bay Village Police Department to be in full compliance with the stringent CFA accreditation standards.

The accreditation process is a voluntary program that requires law enforcement agencies to meet over 200 professional standards established by the CFA. These standards cover all aspects of law enforcement operations, including use of force, investigations, personnel practices, evidence handling, and many other critical areas.

“This major initiative is directly in line with the organization’s determined goals to consistently pursue industry best practices and achieve law enforcement excellence,” Chief Noriega stated.

In their report, the assessment team praised the North Bay Village Police Department’s Community Affairs Initiative, which strengthens partnerships with residents through youth programs, community events, and crime prevention efforts. The exemplary community support observed during the assessment was noted as a testament to the department’s success in this area.

By earning accreditation, the North Bay Village Police Department has demonstrated its professional excellence and joined an elite group through this rigorous process. The accreditation is valid for three years, during which time the department must maintain compliance and participate in annual file reviews.

The citizens of North Bay Village can take immense pride in their police department’s commitment to providing the highest quality law enforcement services through adherence to best practices and professional standards.

Contact: Julie Leonardi

Director of Communications

786-510-8521 [email protected]

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