Mayor Dominic Cicalese and Police Chief William J. Worden are proud to announce that the City of Port Jervis Police Department has been awarded the Certificate of Accreditation by the New York State Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, awarded on September 10th in Albany, New York.

The Division of Criminal Justice Services Law Enforcement Accreditation Council’s Law Enforcement Agency Accreditation Program is voluntary and aims to enhance an agency’s effectiveness, efficiency, and professionalism, promote staff training, and foster public confidence in law enforcement.

To achieve accreditation, agencies must meet a set of 112 standards across three categories: Administration, Training, and Operations. This accreditation signifies that the City of Port Jervis Police Department meets or exceeds quality expectations, operates in a professional manner, has established policies governing operational practices, and ensures that its members understand their roles and responsibilities.

By becoming an accredited agency, the Port Jervis Police Department has demonstrated a high level of professionalism and efficiency in delivering police services. This accomplishment results in greater accountability, enhanced public trust, and the implementation of modern policies and procedures that reflect best practices in policing, along with a commitment to continuous improvement through ongoing training and professional development.

Over the past year, the department has diligently worked to meet the 112 accreditation standards in administration, training, and operations. From June 10-12, 2025, a team of auditors from the Law Enforcement Agency Accreditation Council conducted a rigorous on-site assessment to evaluate the department’s adherence to these standards. During this evaluation, the auditors conducted 262 interviews with sworn staff and civilians, made 82 observations of operational practices, and reviewed various policies and procedures to verify compliance.

Fewer than 35% of law enforcement agencies in the State of New York have achieved accreditation from the New York State Law Enforcement Agency Accreditation Council.

Mayor Dominic Cicalese:

“This accreditation is a tremendous accomplishment for our City of Port Jervis Police Department and is a testament to the hard work, dedication and professionalism of our officers and staff. Achieving accreditation demonstrates not only that our department meets the highest standards in law enforcement, but shows that the department is committed to accountability, transparency and continuous improvement in serving the residents of Port Jervis. I could not be prouder of Chief Worden and the entire department for reaching this achievement.”

Chief William J. Worden

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to every member of our department for their role in achieving this accomplishment. Our accreditation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every member of our agency. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and our pride in serving the community with professionalism and integrity. I am incredibly proud of our team for this milestone and their relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Accreditation is valid for five years during which accredited agencies must maintain and demonstrate compliance with all program standards and submit annual reports to confirm their ongoing commitment in excellence. For additional information about the New York State Law Enforcement Agency Accreditation Program, please visit https://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/ops/accred/