Photo courtesy of the town of Paradise Valley
On July 17, the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP) HONORED Chief Freeman Carney and Sergeant Kelly Ingram during their annual summit, marking a significant moment of pride for the Paradise Valley Police Department.
Carney received the prestigious Accredited Chief Executive Award. This high honor for law enforcement leaders necessitates exceptional qualifications such as a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree coupled with executive-level training, extensive command experience, and active AACOP membership. Additionally, recipients must be affiliated with an accredited agency or one seeking accreditation through the Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP). Notably, the Paradise Valley Police Department holds ALEAP accreditation.
Sergeant Ingram was bestowed the Accredited Command Executive Award. This accolade recognizes individuals with outstanding academic achievements, requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree with additional executive-level training. It also demands significant command experience—serving as a lieutenant or equivalent for at least two years, or as a sergeant with command responsibilities for a minimum of two years, as defined by the ALEAP Commission. Recipients must be current AACOP members, reflecting their dedication to advancing law enforcement standards.
Carney, who previously received the Accredited Command Executive Award, while serving as a commander, was promoted to chief of police in December 2022. He is the first chief in Arizona to earn both the Command Executive Award and the Chief Executive Award, showcasing his exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to the community.
Ingram’s accolade is historic; she is the first sergeant in the program’s history to receive the Command Executive Award. Her advanced training and education have established a new benchmark of excellence, traditionally reserved for command-level supervisors.
