Citizens Police Academy
The Citizen's Police Academy is an instructional program that
facilitates community involvement of the citizen's of St Joseph County. This
comprehensive program provides the information on the law enforcement profession
and it's governing principles.
The Citizen's Police Academy will introduce citizens to law enforcement issues
and St Joseph County Police procedures. This course is not intended to train
individuals to perform law enforcement duties or take police action. However, it
serves as an overview of the training, functions and procedures of the St.
Joseph County Police Department. Classes are instructed by St. Joseph County
Police administrators and officers who have experience and considerable
knowledge of law enforcement.
Classes are offered in the spring and fall of each year at no cost to
participants. Classes meet once a week from 6:00-8:30 p.m. for 12 weeks.
Individuals 18 and older who live, work or attend school in St. Joseph County
are eligible to apply. Class size is limited, and participants are subject to a
criminal background check prior to acceptance.
Graduation ceremonies are held the final week of the Academy, at which time
students receive an achievement certificate.
Class Topics Include:
- Department Organization, chain of command, rules & procedures
- Citizen complaint process
- Criminal Investigation, crime scene preservation and evidence
collection
- Domestic Violence, juvenile crime
- Use of force policy
- Recruiting and selection process
- Crime Prevention
- Patrol tactics, accident investigations, police ride-along
- Firearms training/safety, SWAT
- Narcotics investigations, court system
- Tours: St Joseph County Jail,
Juvenile Justice Center
What do former participants say about CPA?
The CPA is a great way for citizens of St. Joseph County to educate themselves
concerning the working aspects of the police departments. It familiarizes
citizens with the many diversified departments, no longer limiting citizens
knowledge to patrol and jail duties only.
Phyllis Fields
CPA was a great experience to learn each departments role in solving a crime and
the legal limitations officers must follow. During the role playing scenarios I
felt the energy rise. However, an officer must always keep a level head. I have
a great respect for officers for what they do for us. I would recommend each
citizen to take CPA and get involved* I have done both, and it has proven to be
valuable.
Juanita (Nita) Dempsey
