Lake County Gazette

The Buffalo Grove Police Department (BGPD) has once again proven itself a national leader in law enforcement professionalism, earning its 10th reaccreditation (11th overall) from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) on Friday, March 22, 2025.

In a major milestone, BGPD was awarded the CALEA Advanced Accreditation with Excellence Award, a distinction reserved for the most elite agencies in the country. According to CALEA, less than 5% of accredited law enforcement agencies nationwide receive this honor.

Additionally, the Department received a Certificate of Meritorious Accreditation for maintaining its accredited status for 15 or more consecutive years, having first earned CALEA accreditation in 1987.

"This reaccreditation is a reflection of the deep commitment our officers and staff have to accountability, transparency, and service," said Police Chief Brian Budds. "Being among only 5% of Illinois agencies and 4% nationally to earn CALEA accreditation is a tremendous honor, and receiving the Advanced Accreditation with Excellence Award places us among the very best. It’s a proud day for our department and for the Buffalo Grove community we serve. "

CALEA accreditation is the gold standard in public safety, ensuring agencies meet and maintain the highest benchmarks in policing. BGPD’s accreditation requires compliance with approximately 462 rigorous standards that cover everything from crime prevention and safety initiatives to personnel practices and community engagement.

The reaccreditation process includes a comprehensive review by independent law enforcement professionals from out-of-state agencies. These assessors examine documentation, conduct interviews with personnel and community members, and perform on-site facility inspections. The process is overseen by Sergeant Hector De La Paz, BGPD’s Accreditation Manager.

Accreditation is valid for four years, during which the Department must submit annual reports and undergo remote reviews to verify ongoing compliance.

“Buffalo Grove residents can take pride in knowing their Police Department continues to set the standard for excellence — not just locally, but across the nation,” said Budds.