Given that Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services data shows 2,837 “use of force” incidents from 1,040 police agencies took place in the state in 2025, one would think law enforcement agencies would be clamoring to take advantage of the new Ohio Collaborative Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.

Established in 2024, the program gives law enforcement agencies an opportunity to demonstrate they are meeting standards set by the state Public Safety Department.

“If an agency is willingly opening their doors to criticism, that shows great leadership. Having someone else come in and check their work and verify it — that’s what accreditation does,” said Ed Burkhammer, director of Law Enforcement Services with the Ohio Department of Public Safety, according to a report by WKYC.

This year, the Ohio Department of Public Safety announced 14 newly accredited agencies: Beachwood Police Department, Beaver Township Police Department, Boardman Township Police Department, Bridgeport Police Department, Cleveland State University Police Department, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, Gallia County Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton Township Police Department, Independence Police Department, Medina Police Department, Miami County Parks Police Department, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Summit County Sheriff’s Office.

This isn’t a quick or easy process. According to WKYC-TV, it takes about 18 months as five Department of Public Safety staffers work with agency program managers, and several external assessors conduct an on-site evaluation.

“No matter what police or sheriff’s office you visit in Ohio, you expect a high level of professionalism and professional service,” Burkhammer said, according to WKYC.

As those who have been accredited work to continue to meet standards for best practices for conducting themselves in “use of force” situations, officials at departments across Ohio should be getting in line to join them.

“We want to reach all 88 counties. Our goal is to help every agency who wants to be helped,” Burkhammer told WKYC.

Surely everyone, no matter the size of the department or agency, wants that, too.