Updated Tips for PAC Requests

Researching policies and procedures can feel like a never-ending task, especially when someone in your agency asks, "How do other agencies handle this?"

You have a few options:

• Reach out to nearby agencies one by one.
• Consult members of a regional accreditation group.
• Tap into your accreditation community’s Police Accreditation Coalition (PAC), if one exists.

In Florida, the Florida Police Accreditation Coalition (FLA-PAC) serves as a go-to resource for agencies seeking policy guidance and best practices. The tips below will help you navigate PAC Requests efficiently and get the answers you need. But no matter where you are, the strategies are still helpful to policy research.

Search Like a Pro

Start broad with just one or two keywords. Then, refine your search based on the results. For example, if you're looking for use of force reporting, try "use of force" first, then adjust based on what comes up. Small tweaks can make a big difference!

Stay Organized

Create a dedicated folder on your computer or in PowerDMS for PAC Request responses. Name it after your topic, and save attachments using the agency name for easy reference. If responses are text-only, copy the full request and replies into a document, using the same naming convention as the attachments. Check out the short video below on what this could look like:

When Results Are Sparse, Reach Out

If your search doesn’t yield much, check if others have asked the same question but didn’t get responses. Then, phone a friend! Look up the authors of related posts and email or call them. They may have received offline responses or drafted policies they can share.

Create Your Own PAC Request

If you don’t find what you need, post your own request!

• Keep the subject line clear and direct.
• Be specific about whether you’re looking for responses, policy examples, or both.
• Spell-check before posting!
• Responses will be sent to both your email and the post itself. Refer back to Tip #2 to keep them organized.

Share What You Find

Consider the best way to share the information internally, if necessary.

• For text responses: Forward via email.
• For policy attachments: Instead of sending multiple emails, create a PowerDMS folder. Upload the documents and grant cascading view rights so others can easily access future additions.

Who do you know that could benefit from these accreditation-friendly tips and resources? Consider sharing this link with a colleague so they can sign up:https://www.accreditationacademy.net/signup 

Areaka P. Jewell

areaka@accreditationacademy.net

(305)360-1075