Agency Recognition

The North Richland Hills Police Department first attained “recognized” status in December 2011 and held the distinction of being the 48^th agency in the state to reach that benchmark set by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program.  Four years later, the Police Department demonstrated compliance in 166 standards, and was again awarded recognized status in this exemplary class with now over 117 other Texas agencies. 

Begun in 2007, the Recognition Program evaluates a Police Department’s compliance with 166 Best Business Practices for Texas Law Enforcement. The program is a voluntary process where police agencies in Texas prove their compliance with law enforcement’s current Best Practices.  The Best Practices were carefully developed by Texas Law Enforcement professionals to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service and the protection of individual’s rights. These Best Practices cover all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.  While being “Recognized” does not mean an agency will not make a mistake, it does ensure that the agency has carefully thought about these critical issues, has developed policy and procedures to address them and has systems in place to identify and correct problems.

When the North Richland Hills Police Department achieved the title “Recognized” in 2011, it meant that the agency met or exceeded all of the identified Best Practices for Texas Law Enforcement Agencies.  The “Recognized” status is awarded for a four-year period.  During the four year period, the agency must submit an annual report and show continuing compliance with several performance related standards.  These are reviewed as they are received and compliance verified.  During the last year of the period, the agency must prepare updated documentation on all Best Practices and another on-site review is conducted.  The Recognition Committee must then vote again to approve “Recognized” status for the next four years. On June 24, 2020, the North Richland Hills Police Department was awarded “Recognized” status through the year 2024.

The Recognition Program assures the Council, City Management and the citizens we serve that their Police Department embodies the very best of what the law enforcement profession represents. 

For more information on the TPCA accreditation program, visit - https://www.texaspolicechiefs.org/recognition-program