Editor’s note: Lori Matlack took the photograph.
The City of Morrison, IL, and its Police Department is pleased to announce that Chief of Police Brian Melton has been honored by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP.) He is now designated as a Certified Police Chief through the Association’s Police Chief Certification Program. This designation signifies that Chief Melton has met the highest standards of competency and conduct for his profession.
On Monday, August 8, 2022, at the regular meeting of the Morrison City Council, Chief Melton was presented with his certification. It was conveyed by Darren Gault, Chief of Police, City of Moline, IL, and 2nd Vice President of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.
To be eligible for consideration, those interested in pursuing certification must first meet the ILACP’s criteria for experience, education, professional membership, and community involvement. In the first phase of the process, candidates must demonstrate extensive Law Enforcement experience, including Command and Executive posts; a solid educational background that encompasses continuing education and training; an active participation in relevant professional and community organizations.
After meeting these requirements, they are allowed to proceed with the certification examination. It tests their knowledge of managerial concepts, modern policing concepts, law and leading cases, and budgeting principles.
Candidates who demonstrate their mastery in these areas must then face a panel of their peers. The panel consists of two active Illinois Police Chiefs and a Professor in a university Law Enforcement Program. During the structured interview, the panel questions and evaluates the candidate in the areas of Leadership, Management, Public Relations, Verbal Communication, and Ethics.
Only those who have successfully completed all phases of the assessment process are granted the distinction of a Certified Police Chief in Illinois. Chief Melton is among only a select few Police Chiefs, who have been able to meet the stringent requirements of the program since its inception in 1998.
Illinois is the only state in the U. S. that currently offers a Police Chief Certification Program based on an extensive, legally-validated examination process. The ILACP, in conjunction with Standard & Associates, Inc., a Chicago-based public safety consulting firm, oversaw a rigorous development and review process, that involved Police Chiefs from across the State. The program is designed to recognize those Law Enforcement professionals who excel in all facets of the Police Chief function.
To maintain certification status, Police Chiefs must meet on-going requirements and apply for re-certification every five years.
