The Owenton Police Force is working hard to do more for you.
On top of his regular duties, Police Chief Terry Gentry is seeking accreditation for the local department, an award that symbolizes professionalism, excellence and competence within an agency.
The rigorous year-long process includes a review of records, policies and procedures to ensure the force meets the high standards set by the accrediting body, the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police.
While the accreditation process will take time, and financial and staff resources, Gentry says the reward could far exceed the investment.
“For taxpayers, accreditation means lower insurance premiums because it lowers the force’s liability,” Gentry said. “Knowing the force meets a higher standard can be a bragging point for Owen Countians.”
To help offset the cost of accreditation, he is applying for federal and state grants.
Because departments that have met state and national standards are better risks, Kentucky League of Cities Insurance Services (KLCIS) will offer them incentives, such as a 1- percent premium discount for the duration of accreditation and a KLCIS Safety Grant Program to fund the application for accredited status.
The standards the police force would be held to are meant to increase the force’s capabilities to prevent and control crime, increase efficiency, encourage cooperation with other law enforcement agencies and increase public and employee confidence in goals, objectives, and practices of the department.
If the Owenton Police Department is awarded an accredited status, it will be one of the smallest forces in the state to receive the honor, Gentry said.
In addition to researching accreditation, Gentry is applying for grants to equip squad cars with mobile computer units.

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