Plano Police Department receives Federal Use of Force certification

The Plano Police Department has received its Federal Use of Force certification from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, according to a statement posted Jan. 4 on the department’s Facebook page.

“After being assigned an evaluator and an extensive review process, the Plano Police Department has received Federal Use of Force certification from the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police,” the statement read. “The criteria to achieve certification was set forth by the U.S. Department of Justice. After submitting documentation in the areas of training, policy, community involvement and other areas, the certification was granted.”

Lt. Norm Allison confirmed that the certification was received Jan. 4, after a few weeks of applying, gathering necessary data for submission and approval.

Allison explained that the association reviews the department’s policies regarding use of force and engagement with the community and awards certification if the department is “compliant with what is in the policy,” or legal federal standards.

“They also check on what training we have had in decision making, de-escalation,” Allison said.

“The Plano Police Department is very proud of this certification and we continue to improve in all areas of our organization,” the statement concluded.