UP to host hearing on police department standards

Union Pacific Railroad's police department is seeking public input as it pursues its third accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA), the national accrediting organization for law enforcement agencies.

The voluntary accreditation is considered the "gold standard" in law enforcement to show that police force meets rigorous requirements, said UP Police Chief Robert Morrison in a press release.

"Receiving community feedback is an important part of the process and we encourage community members to share their thoughts as we demonstrate our commitment to law enforcement excellence," said Morrison.

CALEA's on-site evaluation seeks to confirm the police department meets standards in policy and procedures, administration, operations and support services. The public comments are sought to address UP's compliance with those standards.

UP is asking community members to provide feedback by calling 877-859-9008 between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. March 14. A public hearing will be held 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. that day at the Residence Inn in downtown Omaha, Neb. Comments are limited to 10 minutes at both forums.