“Best Police In The Commonwealth:” Select Board Congratulates Wilmington Police Department For Attaining Re-Accreditation, Praise Chief & Lt. Chief

WILMINGTON, MA — Wilmington Police Chief Joseph Desmond and Deputy Chief Brian Pupa were in front of the Select Board last month to receive accolades for the Police Department’s recent successful reaccreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission.

“This was the 4th reaccreditation the Department has been through,” Desmond told the Board. “The assessment happened in May. It was a 3-day assessment. It’s a very daunting task, especially for Lt. Dan Murray, who is in charge of our accreditation procedures. There are about 256 standards that have to be met. We have to prove that we’re actually following them… We got word that we officially passed and then, on October 4, 2023, we formally received a plaque at a ceremony. We’re very pleased.”

Desmond went on to explain the importance of having an accredited police department.

“Obviously, it has a lot to do with the trust of the public. When an outside agency comes in and evaluates you, and tells you you’re doing things the right way, that certainly helps,” said Desmond. “Following the latest standards in the industry… helps with the safety of our officers and the public. Overall, we think an accredited police department leads to a safer community.”

The Select Board and Town Manager each took a turn to congratulate the Police Department.

“I want to congratulate you for receiving your accreditation again. I know it’s a tough credit to get, and I’m honored to be able to tell everyone that you received it,” Select Board Chair Gary DePalma told Chief Desmond and Lt. Chief Pupa. “I’m proud to have you and your team protect and serve us.”

“It’s no surprise to any of us that you’re receiving [accreditation] again,” added Selectman Greg Bendel. “[WPD] keeps us safe and is such great community partners, from the Police Day at the Beach to Annual Night Out, and on and on. We’re so lucky to have you and your department.”

“I want to congratulate you on the continued success,” echoed Selectman Kevin Caira. “Your presence in the community is important. The communication you have with the residents is important. Your department is top notch and professional. We have the best police in the Commonwealth.”

“One of the most important things is that balance between keeping us safe but the communication and interaction. It’s really tough to have that balance – authority and being approachable. You guys definitely have that,” said Selectwoman Lil Maselli. “Our children and residents respect you as officers of law, but they also know they can come to you and talk to you.,,, Job well done again. I have no doubt in three years we’ll be congratulating you again [for the next re-accreditation].”

“It’s probably hard for any of us at this table to fully understand the work that goes into maintaining these standards,” noted then Town Manager Jeff Hull. “These are policies and procedures. need to be executed and imbedded in the day-to-day process that police officers go through. To be able to maintain that rigor, year after year, reup it every 3 years, really speaks volumes to these gentlemen are as leaders and the people they work with.”

Police Chief Desmond concluded his remarks by thanking all the men and women of his the Police Department, as well as the Select Board and Town Manager for their support.

To learn more about the accreditation process, read the Police Department’s press release which the Wilmington Apple published several weeks ago.