POST Commission Marks Bridge Academy Completion, Welcomes New Members, and Advances Agency Certification Initiative
At its latest meeting, the POST Commission welcomed two new members, Commissioner Eddy Chrispin and Commissioner Clyde Talley.
The Commission marked the official conclusion of the Bridge Academy on June 30, 2024—an important milestone in implementing the police reform law (Chapter 253 of the Acts of 2020). The Academy, a one-time, no-cost initiative created by EOPSS and MPTC, provided 200 hours of training and a 2,400-hour work requirement for reserve and part-time officers who lacked the full 800-hour training. Of the 3,500 eligible officers, 1,400 completed the program, leaving 51% uncertified.
POST also reported that nearly all agencies have submitted recertification applications for officers with last names Q–Z by the June 30 deadline. One agency requested and received an extension.
Commissioners reviewed a new flowchart outlining how POST interacts with law enforcement agencies in the complaint process—from submission to review and closure.
The Commission shared updated data on its disciplinary records catch-up project. Between January 31, 2023, and March 5, 2024, POST received 590 complaints. A subset of 489 complaints will soon be published; the rest remain pending disciplinary outcomes. Additionally, the July database will include records of 205 individuals who were never certified, including those who resigned, are on leave, or were terminated. These records will remain public for five years after separation.
POST staff gave a live demonstration of the new website, www.mapostcommission.gov, highlighting real-time updates, improved search capabilities, and expanded functionality. Commissioners responded positively and recommended reviewing the site’s photos to ensure diversity and clarity in its purpose for both law enforcement and the public.
The Legal team presented updates on the LEA certification initiative, reviewed stakeholder feedback, and outlined the next steps in response to Commissioner input. The public comment period remains open through August 9.
