Johnson County, IA — The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office has become the first sheriff’s office in Iowa to earn accreditation through the Iowa Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, marking a major statewide milestone in law enforcement standards and accountability.
According to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the accreditation officially took effect Monday, December 23, and will remain valid for a four-year period. The ILEAP program was developed by the Iowa Police Chiefs Association and the Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association to help agencies meet modern professional policing standards.
Officials said the accreditation process required nearly nine months of work and a comprehensive review across 21 different assessment areas, including use-of-force policies, professional standards, recruitment and selection, training and career development, and property and evidence control.
Major Randy Lamm, Chief Deputy with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, led the effort to secure accreditation and ensured the agency met strict compliance requirements. According to the department, the process included updating existing policies, creating new procedures where needed, training personnel on changes, and submitting formal proof of adherence to ILEAP standards.
The program’s goals include increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement services, establishing best-practice standards, and reducing liability for agencies and their personnel.
Sheriff Brad Kunkel said the achievement reflects the department’s commitment to professionalism and public trust.
“Professionalism is a priority at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office,” Kunkel said in a statement. “This program reinforces our commitment to providing quality public safety and accountability for the community we serve.”
By voluntarily undergoing external review and ongoing evaluation, the sheriff’s office said it aims to maintain transparency while continuing to refine policies and procedures.
More information about the Iowa Law Enforcement Accreditation Program is available through the Iowa Police Chiefs Association.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
