GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The Gatlinburg Police Department (GPD) has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence and professionalism by receiving accreditation through the Tennessee Association of Police Chiefs Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation. This marks the sixth time the Gatlinburg Police Department has earned accreditation, which marks the agency to be first in the state of Tennessee to be accredited six times.
TLEA accreditation is awarded on a three-year cycle, which has allowed the Gatlinburg Police Department to be accredited for 18 consecutive years. The rigorous accreditation process evaluates policies, procedures, training, and operations to ensure agencies meet nationally recognized best practices in law enforcement.
The accreditation process is the result of coordinated efforts across the department. The Gatlinburg Police Department recognizes the work of its officers and staff in maintaining compliance with accreditation standards, as well as the administrative support involved in managing the process, including the efforts of Court Clerk and Accreditation Manager Megan Subbert.
“The accreditation process requires an agency to demonstrate its commitment to professionalism through the ethics and character of its officers,” said Sevier County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Leia Loveday, who was one of the onsite assessors for the Police Department’s accreditation process and presented the Department with the accreditation honor at the February 3 City Commission meeting. “The Gatlinburg Police Department has clearly met those expectations. I commend Chief Ronnie Barrett and Assistant Chief Justin Brown for setting the leadership and vision that guide this process. This accreditation reflects the efforts of every member of the department. GPD is in compliance with all 164 standards, and the assessors unanimously approved the department for its sixth consecutive accreditation.”
Police Chief Ronnie Barrett praised the Department’s personnel and the support of the City Commission and Administration.
“Achieving accreditation for the sixth time is a significant milestone for the Gatlinburg Police Department,” said Chief Barrett. “This accomplishment reflects the dedication and professionalism of our officers and employees who work every day to serve this community with integrity. I also want to thank the Gatlinburg City Commission and the City Administration for their continued support of our department and our mission. Their commitment to public safety allows the Department to maintain its status as one of the best in the State.”
Accreditation through the TLEA affirms the Gatlinburg Police Department’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement. As the first department in the state to reach six accreditation cycles, GPD continues to demonstrate leadership in professional law enforcement standards.
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