Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 464 - GEORGIA PEACE OFFICER STANDARDS AND TRAINING COUNCIL
Department 464 – Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (POST Council)
The Georgia POST Council is responsible for establishing and enforcing minimum standards for the training, certification, and conduct of peace officers in Georgia. Its purpose is to promote professionalism, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and ensure public safety.
Key Functions and Rules of Department 464
1. Establishment and Authority
The POST Council is created by state law to oversee peace officer standards and training.
It has the authority to set minimum qualifications for employment and continued service as a peace officer.
2. Certification of Peace Officers
The Council establishes the certification process for peace officers.
Officers must meet eligibility criteria, including background checks, training completion, and physical and psychological standards.
The Council issues certifications that validate an officer’s qualifications to serve in law enforcement roles.
3. Training Requirements
The Council sets minimum training requirements for initial and continuing education.
This includes mandatory basic training academies for new officers.
Continuing education and specialized training programs are also mandated to maintain certification.
4. Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
Officers certified under the Council must adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.
The Council defines standards of conduct, including integrity, respect for constitutional rights, and professionalism.
Violations can lead to disciplinary action, suspension, or revocation of certification.
5. Disciplinary Procedures
The Council has procedures to investigate complaints against officers.
If misconduct is found, the Council may impose penalties, including reprimand, suspension, or permanent revocation of certification.
Officers have rights to hearings and appeals during disciplinary processes.
6. Recertification and Decertification
Officers must periodically renew their certification by completing required training and meeting Council standards.
Decertification occurs when an officer loses certification due to misconduct or failure to meet standards.
Decertified officers are prohibited from serving as peace officers in Georgia.
7. Training Providers and Curriculum
The Council approves and monitors training academies and instructors.
It sets curriculum standards to ensure training meets law enforcement needs and legal requirements.
Training providers must comply with Council rules to maintain approval.
8. Records and Reporting
The Council maintains records on officer certifications, training, disciplinary actions, and renewals.
Law enforcement agencies must report hiring, termination, and disciplinary actions to the Council.
These records support transparency and accountability.
Summary
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Authority | Sets and enforces peace officer standards in Georgia. |
| Certification | Establishes eligibility and issues certifications. |
| Training | Requires initial and ongoing law enforcement training. |
| Code of Ethics | Defines expected officer conduct and professionalism. |
| Discipline | Investigates and disciplines misconduct. |
| Recertification | Requires periodic renewal of certifications. |
| Training Oversight | Approves and monitors training providers and curriculum. |
| Records & Reporting | Maintains officer records and requires agency reports. |
Purpose and Impact
The POST Council helps ensure that all peace officers in Georgia are qualified, well-trained, ethical, and accountable. This protects citizens and strengthens public trust in law enforcement.
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