Fountain Inn Police Department Earns Reaccreditation Through South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Program
June 24, 2026
In June 2026, the City of Fountain Inn Police Department earned reaccreditation through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation (SCLEA) Program, reaffirming the department’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement in serving the community.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation (SCLEA) Program is the state’s official accrediting body for law enforcement agencies. Established to promote the highest standards in policing, the voluntary accreditation program evaluates agencies against rigorous professional standards developed from South Carolina law, industry best practices, and the expertise of law enforcement professionals throughout the state.
The accreditation process requires agencies to demonstrate compliance with hundreds of professional standards designed to enhance public safety operations, reduce risk, improve efficiency, and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement services. Accreditation assessors review policies, training programs, operational procedures, records management practices, and community service efforts to ensure compliance with established standards.
For the Fountain Inn Police Department, reaccreditation signifies more than simply meeting standards. It demonstrates the department’s ongoing commitment to conducting operations with integrity, maintaining effective policies and procedures, enhancing transparency, and delivering professional public safety services to the citizens of Fountain Inn.
“I could not be prouder of the men and women of the Fountain Inn Police Department for successfully earning reaccreditation through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation Program,” said Police Chief Patrick Fortenberry. “Accreditation is more than meeting standards- it represents our commitment to professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement in the services we provide to our community. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work demonstrated by every member of our department each day.”
For residents, reaccreditation provides assurance that the Fountain Inn Police Department operates according to recognized professional standards, regularly evaluates its practices, and remains committed to continuous improvement. This achievement reflects the department’s focus on accountability, transparency, operational excellence, and building trust within the community.
“This achievement reflects the professionalism and dedication of our entire team,” Fortenberry added. “It is an honor to serve alongside such an outstanding group of men and women as we remain committed to keeping our community safer together.”
The Fountain Inn Police Department remains committed to building strong partnerships with residents, businesses, and community organizations while continuing to provide exceptional public safety services for generations to come.
