This week’s Cape May City Council Meeting featured a proud moment for the Cape May Police Department, as Chief Dekon W. Fashaw Sr. accepted a Certificate of Accreditation plaque presented by Harry J. Delgado, Accreditation Program Director for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP), through its New Jersey Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission.

“In the case of the Cape May Police Department, they had a remarkable final assessment,” said Delgado before Mayor Zack Mullock, members of City Council, and residents in attendance.

The Cape May Police Department’s accreditation team, led by Lt. Scott Krissinger has worked diligently to ensure the Department’s compliance with established best-practice standards across five key areas: administration, personnel, operations, investigations, and the arrestee/detainee function.

Accreditation promotes greater accountability, reduces risk and liability exposure, strengthens an agency’s defense against civil litigation, increases community confidence, and reinforces the department’s ability to operate efficiently while responding effectively to the needs of the community.

“This accreditation process was no easy task,” said Chief Fashaw. “Assessments occur every three years, and Lt. Krissinger, CMPD Command Staff along with our officers, consistently maintains the required accreditation materials and standards. Their dedication ensures that we continue to meet the highest standards and remain well prepared for the next reaccreditation cycle.”

Accreditation is valid for three years, during which the agency must submit annual reports demonstrating continued compliance with the established standards. In April, assessors visited the Cape May Police Department to review written materials, interview agency members, and inspect areas where compliance with the standards could be observed. Following the assessment, the full Commission determined that the Cape May Police Department had successfully met the requirements for accredited status.

Chief Fashaw also expressed his appreciation for the continued support of City leadership.

“I’d like to thank Manager Paul Dietrich, Deputy City Manager Justin Riggs, Mayor Mullock, and the members of Cape May City Council for their continued support of our Department. Their support enables us to participate in the NJSACOP Accreditation Program and serve our residents to the highest possible standards.”

Chief Fashaw added, “I could not do what we do without the men and women of the Cape May Police Department. I am forever grateful for the dedication and commitment of our agency’s members.”