Department Demonstrates Continued Excellence in Professional Standards and Community Policing
The Utica Police Department has received reaccreditation certification from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, validating five more years of professional excellence and community-focused policing. The certification, granted during a September 10 ceremony in Albany, extends the department’s accredited status through September 2030.
Rigorous Assessment Process Confirms Professional Standards
The reaccreditation process involved intensive evaluation by DCJS assessment teams who conducted comprehensive reviews of departmental policies and procedures during July 2025. This thorough examination ensured full compliance with New York State’s demanding accreditation standards, which cover everything from officer training to community engagement practices.
“In July 2025, a DCJS assessment team conducted a comprehensive review of the department’s policies and procedures to ensure full compliance with New York State’s rigorous accreditation standards. Their findings confirmed that the Utica Police Department continues to meet and exceed these benchmarks,” according to the mayor’s office release.
Continuous Accreditation Since 2010 Demonstrates Consistency
The Utica Police Department’s commitment to professional standards spans over a decade, with continuous accreditation since 2010. This sustained achievement reflects organizational culture focused on excellence rather than one-time compliance efforts.
The multi-year commitment required for maintaining accreditation demonstrates the department’s dedication to evolving best practices and continuous improvement in law enforcement service delivery.
Leadership Recognition Highlights Individual Excellence
Officer Rick Hill received special recognition during the Albany ceremony, earning the John Kimball O’Neil Certificate of Achievement for his leadership and dedication as program manager for the department’s Law Enforcement Accreditation Program. This individual recognition underscores the personal commitment required to maintain institutional excellence.
“Officer Rick Hill received the ‘John Kimball O’Neil certificate of achievement in recognition of his leadership and dedication as the program manager for our agency Law Enforcement Accreditation Program,'” noted departmental communications.
Voluntary Program Emphasizes Professional Development
Chief of Police Mark Williams emphasized the voluntary nature of the accreditation program, highlighting organizational commitment beyond basic legal requirements. “The accreditation program is voluntary and designed to enhance effectiveness, professionalism, training, and, most importantly, public confidence,” Williams stated.
This voluntary participation demonstrates proactive commitment to excellence rather than reactive compliance with mandates, reflecting organizational values prioritizing community service and professional development.
Mayor Galime Connects Accreditation to Public Safety Priorities
Mayor Mike Galime praised the department’s achievement, connecting reaccreditation to broader municipal priorities. “Public Safety is a priority of this administration. This reaccreditation is a part of that,” Galime said, linking professional law enforcement standards to overall community well-being.
The administrative support for accreditation efforts demonstrates coordinated commitment between elected leadership and law enforcement professionals to maintain high service standards.
Best Practices Implementation Serves Regional Model
The accreditation program ensures department members follow established best practices for policies and procedures throughout the law enforcement profession. This standardization benefits not only Utica residents but provides a regional model for professional policing in smaller communities.
Williams noted that accreditation “ensures that department members are following the best practices for policies and procedures in our profession,” connecting local excellence to broader professional standards.
Community Confidence Building Through Professional Standards
The reaccreditation process focuses significantly on building public confidence through demonstrated professionalism and accountability. This emphasis on community trust reflects modern policing approaches that prioritize collaborative relationships between law enforcement and residents.
The City of Utica’s public recognition of the department’s achievement demonstrates transparency and community engagement in public safety excellence, encouraging continued support for professional law enforcement practices.
Chief Williams publicly acknowledged all department members, both sworn and unsworn, for their professionalism and dedication to maintaining state accreditation standards, emphasizing the collective effort required for institutional excellence.
Call to Action: Support professional law enforcement in your community by staying engaged with local police departments and recognizing officers who demonstrate commitment to excellence and community service.
