Amtrak Police Earn Calea Accreditation

International recognition of public safety professional excellence

WASHINGTON – The Amtrak Police Department was awarded law enforcement accreditation on November 18, 2012, by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

To achieve accreditation, Amtrak Police had to show compliance with several hundred professional standards measured by the commission and were evaluated on all aspects of the department’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

“I am very proud of the daily efforts of our officers to help keep our passengers and employees safe,” said Amtrak Assistant Chief of Police Lisa A. Shahade. “Achieving this prestigious award validates that the work of the men and women of this department meets or exceeds law enforcement industry standards, while also meeting the safety and security needs of Amtrak passengers.”

An assessment team from CALEA reviewed written materials, conducted interviews with department staff and Amtrak passengers, and visited several key locations including the Amtrak Police National Communication Center, the Amtrak Consolidated National Operations Center and major stations in Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City before making their determination.

CALEA accreditation is a voluntary process. The initial accreditation is for a three year period. To maintain the three year accredited status, the department will submit an annual report to show yearly compliance with the standards.

About Amtrak®:
Amtrak is America’s Railroad®, the nation’s intercity passenger rail service and its high-speed rail operator. A record 31.2 million passengers traveled on Amtrak in FY 2012 on more than 300 daily trains – at speeds up to 150 mph (241 kph) – that connect 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian Provinces. Amtrak operates intercity trains in partnership with 15 states and contracts with 13 commuter rail agencies to provide a variety of services. Enjoy the journey® at Amtrak.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for schedules, fares and more information. Join us on facebook.com/Amtrak and follow us at twitter.com/Amtrak.