CORNELIA, Ga. — The Cornelia Police Department received high honors Monday night as representatives from the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and the Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program formally presented the agency with its renewed state certification, recognizing the department’s continued commitment to law enforcement excellence.
The certification—considered one of the highest professional recognitions for police agencies in Georgia—is earned, not given, emphasized Ronnie Kilburn, from the Georgia Chiefs Association.
“This is an honor that is earned. It is not given,” he told the mayor, council, and citizens attending the meeting. “The members of the Cornelia Police Department, under the direction of Chief Roberts, have done a great service to you by maintaining certification through the state of Georgia.”
Cornelia first became state certified in 2007, making it the first law enforcement agency in Habersham County to achieve that status. Today, it remains the only certified police department in the county—a point Kilburn said should make the community especially proud.
What State Certification Means
The Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program holds agencies to a high professional standard. To maintain certification, agencies must comply with:
- 141 state standards
- Approximately 275 detailed bullet points
Compliance may involve policy updates, training requirements, reporting procedures, and meeting rigorous accountability expectations.
Roughly 157 agencies statewide currently hold active certification. Cornelia’s participation places it among the departments voluntarily striving to exceed the minimum requirements of Georgia law.
“If all you are is an agency within the state of Georgia, there are basic legal bounds you must comply with,” Kilburn explained. “When you become state certified, it’s like having an associate’s or bachelor’s degree—something you pursue because you want to, not because you have to.”
He added that state certification ensures Cornelia officers are held accountable not only at the municipal level but also at the state level.
A Team Effort
Kilburn praised the department’s teamwork and unity in meeting the program’s demanding standards.
“It takes buy-in from the top all the way to the bottom so that everybody’s on the same page,” he said. “Trust me when I say not all agencies get buy-in—it can be a huge struggle.”
He commended Chief Roberts and the entire department, noting he personally conducted their most recent three-year assessment and was able to recommend the department for recertification.
He then invited Chief Roberts and officers to stand together as he presented the official plaque.
Certification Valid Through 2028
The formal recognition states that the Cornelia Police Department has fully demonstrated its commitment to law enforcement excellence and best practices. The certification is valid from September 2025 through August 2028.
With applause from city officials and attendees, the presenter concluded, “Be proud of what you’ve accomplished.”
image sources
- 2025-12-02 18.19.25-Chief-Roberts: Habersham News
