Establishing a leadership development program for the Delaware State Police: Recommendations for law enforcement leadership development

All organizations require effective and competent leadership to be successful. This is perhaps most critical among law enforcement agencies, whose duties focus on serving and protecting the public. Since the 1960s training and education in law enforcement have been central concerns for police agencies. However, a great deal of police training is devoted toward reducing and solving crime with little devoted to leadership.; This executive position paper provides an assessment of the need for leadership development in law enforcement and describes the process for establishing a leadership development program for the Delaware State Police.; Policy recommendations include: (1) Provide ongoing leadership development in the Delaware State Police through the Leadership in Police Organizations Program. (2) Modify the current Leadership in Police Organizations Program instructional methodology to enhance learning. (3) Develop a plan of action for sustained leadership growth and development beyond the initial completion of the Leadership in Police Organizations Program. (4) Maintain and develop partnerships with other agencies to enhance the cadre of certified Leadership in Police Organizations Program instructors. (5) Maintain and develop partnerships in order to provide and offer the Leadership in Police Organizations Program to other law enforcement agencies. (6) Develop a Center of Excellence between the International Association of Chiefs of Police, The Delaware State Police, and Wilmington University.