Citizen's Police Academy
“ UNDERSTANDING THROUGH EDUCATION ”
The goal of the C. P. A. is to provide enough information to the public to dispel misconceptions and to increase the rapport between citizens and police officers. We hope the graduates of the C. P. A. become more aware and better informed about how the Police Department operates, and will recommend their friends, coworkers and families to join the West Monroe Police Department in this rewarding program.
What is the purpose of conducting a citizen police academy?
The purpose of the Citizen's Community Police Academy is to foster better communication between citizens and police through education. The Citizen's Police Academy offers citizens insights into how the Police Department works, how police officers perform their duties and how the department serves the community. This is accomplished through a series of classes involving instruction by police officers. The academy creates a nucleus of well- informed citizens who possess greater insight into police practices and services. Graduates of the academy are encouraged to share their knowledge and experiences with the community as the opportunity arises. Everyone benefits from enhancing citizen understanding of the role and function of their police department.
What was the W.M.P.D. incentive for starting a C. P. A.
The goal of the C. P. A. is to provide enough information to the public to dispel misconceptions and to increase the rapport between citizens and police officers. We hope the graduates of the C. P. A. become more aware and better informed about how the Police Department operates, and will recommend their friends, coworkers and families to join the West Monroe Police Department in this rewarding program. We feel the more information the public has about the police department, less fears and misconceptions will exist. Many conflicts are caused simply by lack of understanding.
Where did the concept originate?
The program originated in Orlando, Florida in 1984. Orlando was the first city in the United States to start a Citizen Police Academy.
When does the class meet?
The classes are held one day a week, usually on a Tuesday.
Who attends the Citizen Police Academy?
Students range from 17 years of age and above. We have architects, bankers, homemakers, students, retirees, teachers, neighborhood groups, and professionals attending the classes.
