Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Department of Safety has been internationally re-accredited, ensuring that it meets the highest standards for law enforcement agencies, Safety Commissioner Fred Phillips announced today.

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) awarded the re-accreditation last weekend in Nashville. Phillips and Colonel Lynn Pitts, Commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, were on hand to accept the award.

"This accreditation is evidence of the commitment and professionalism of this department," said Phillips. "CALEA requires that we not only meet their high standards, but that we also maintain those standards consistently in all facets of our operations."

Accreditation is granted for three years. During that time, the Department of Safety must submit annual reports that show it is continuing to operate by the 446 standards set forth by CALEA. The Tennessee Department of Safety first gained accreditation in 1999.

A team of CALEA assessors was in Nashville in August to examine all aspects of the department's policies and procedures, management, operations and support services. The team is composed of law enforcement officers from similar agencies in other states. To make their assessment, they visited various Department of Safety sites across the state, reviewed written materials and interviewed numerous people.

"CALEA was very complimentary of our D.A.R.E. educator training program and the GREAT (Gang Resistance Education & Training) program," says Pitts. "They also praised CIRT (Critical Incident Response Team) for its skills in accident reconstruction. This accreditation process is very detailed, and it requires law enforcement agencies to always be at their best. This certification serves as proof that the Department of Safety is among the most professional anywhere."

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.