Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation (TLEA) Program is pleased to announce that it has granted accreditation status to the Waverly Police Department.  This is the 4^th TLEA award for the department. They were awarded this achievement during the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP) meeting held in Franklin, TN on February 7, 2024.

To achieve accreditation with TLEA, an agency voluntarily submits to a three-year process of enhancing the agency’s professionalism and effectiveness utilizing 164 law enforcement standards and participating in a thorough on-site assessment.  The standards are used to evaluate an agency’s policies which address a variety of areas including organizational, operational, and budget management practices.  The program is intended to encourage cooperation, recognize professional standing, develop professional services, and ensure public safety throughout the State of Tennessee.  The TLEA program is a valuable and cost-effective way to enhance overall agency effectiveness and professionalism.

The Waverly Police Department successfully accomplished TLEA accreditation by meeting criteria that measured the level of professionalism, organization, and overall readiness in law enforcement policy and procedures.  “The standard of excellence that is met through this process is to be admired.  We are proud to recognize the hard work of the WaverlyPolice Department, its staff, and community leaders,” stated TACP President David Griswold.

“I believe being an accredited agency means each member of the Waverly Police Department is devoted to providing professional services to every person and each day will continue to provide service and protection to all citizens and visitors of Waverly, Tennessee,” stated Waverly Police Chief Grant Gillespie.

The TLEA program was created under the direction and authority of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police which supports and endorses the continued improvement of law enforcement and emergency communications operations.  This program provides a framework for Tennessee law enforcement agencies to have equal access to effective and comprehensive polices that enhance the professionalism of law enforcement and the safety of our communities.

The TLEA Accreditation status represents a significant professional achievement and acknowledges the successful implementation of written directives, policies, and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective.  It takes commitment, dedication, and hard work from the agency head, agency personnel, and community leaders to meet the standards prescribed by the program.

TACP President David Griswold presenting Waverly Police Chief Grant Gillespie with their 4^th TLEA Accreditation Award

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