Local sheriff's office among 14 to receive state accreditation

PORT CLINTON — Almost a year after announcing its pursuit of accreditation through a state program that recognizes local law enforcement agencies, the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office is among 14 to receive it. In 2024, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine established the Ohio Collaborative Law Enforcement Accreditation Program to formally recognize law enforcement agencies that meet or exceed state standards in nearly three dozen areas, according to a news release from Mike DeWine's office. These areas include professional conduct, bias-free policing, crisis intervention and community engagement. "Attaining accreditation through this program is a prestigious achievement," DeWine said. "Those living in communities served by an accredited department can be confident that their local law enforcement agency demonstrates exceptional professionalism and meets Ohio's high expectations for excellence in public safety services." The program is the only state-administered accreditation program in the nation that does not charge law enforcement agencies to participate. It is voluntary and open to all law enforcement agencies in the state, the release states. Additional agencies receiving this accreditation include departments in the Cleveland area, Medina and Bridgeport.