February 12th, 2019
FFORT SMITH- The Fort Smith Police Department is now accepting applications for the Spring 2019 session of the Citizen’s Police Academy. The academy will take place from April 4th - June 6th, 2019.
The training will not make citizens an actual police officer, but does provide a unique opportunity for Police and citizens to meet in a friendly atmosphere and learn about law enforcement.
The Citizen’s Police Academy was created by the FSPD in 1998 to give members of the community who are curious about their police department a firsthand look at the rules, regulations, and procedures FSPD employees adhere to.
“This creates a better awareness of how the police department works and reduces any preconceived ideas and/or feelings about law enforcement.”, stated the Citizen’s Police Academy’s website.
The program meets one night per week for eleven weeks from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Each night will teach about a different section of the Police Department. Officers and citizens will demonstrate how their jobs contribute to the community.
“Some of it is conducted in the classroom, but there are many activities that are hands-on, meaning you will get the opportunity to perform a lot of the tasks that the officers do.”, stated the Citizens Police Academy website. “This includes an opportunity to ride along with a patrol officer during the shift of your choice.”
The eleventh week is a graduation dinner where participants will receive a certificate of attendance and can participate in a Q&A with Chief Nathaniel Green.
The Academy is free of charge. Applicants will need to have a drivers license and be free of felony and certain misdemeanor convictions.
Those who are interested can apply at the Citizen’s Academy Website.
If you would like more information you can check out the website’s FAQ section or email Officer Shoptaw at [email protected]
Photo and Information Courtesy of cpa.fortsmithpd.org/
