STAR International Police Exchange Alabama Chapter

The program fosters professional and cultural exchange between officers in the US, Germany, & Spain Mission
STAR – International Police Exchange was formed in 1985 between German and US police officers in California. Our mission is the personal education of our members as well as the creation of friendships between US and German police officers. Through personal engagement and with assistance of their respective police departments our members have created a very special network over the last 4 decades. The main focus of our activities is the personal interaction and understanding of each other. Therefore, every year our members organize several exchange programs. The hosting police department organizes extensive visitor programs and also arranges the lodging for the visiting officers. We do not just organize vacation trips but instead offer the opportunity to participate in the daily routine of each others police duties and persona lives. These opportunities include participation in the daily routines of police duty as well as taking part in recreational activities outside of work. For 2 weeks the visiting officer will be part of his hosting family. Description
The Star program allows law enforcement cultures from international communities to exchange ideas through placing guests in the total concept environment with their host families. Host families will allow law enforcement guests to reside with them for a period of two weeks exchanging the similar, but different cultures of law enforcement on and off duty. We have designed practical experiences related to our local law enforcement community, which contains exposure from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Overall this program benefits both law enforcement cultures with initiating new ideas and experiences valuable to the success of our growing law enforcement roles within our communities. We invite law enforcement communities to participate and welcome suggestions and inquire on how to participate in the future. (JB)

The Alabama Chapter was started by Officer Jim Archuletta in 2009. Decatur Police Department was the host department for a number of years with presidents Jim Archuletta followed by Captain James Hood. Hartselle Police Department then became the hosting department with Lt. Linda Fox as President. Now, Cullman Police Department is the host department with President Eric Cole.