Carbondale Police Department taking applications for Citizens Police Academy
CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – The Carbondale Police Department is taking applications for the Citizens Police Academy (CPA).
The purpose of the Citizen’s Police Academy is to develop positive relations, and a better understanding and communication between the police and the community through education, according to the Carbondale Police Department.
The goal is to grow responsible, well-informed citizens, who have the potential of influencing public opinions about police practices and services.
Citizens will gain an appreciation of the problems and challenges facing law enforcement. They will have an opportunity to offer comments and ideas regarding solutions. They will also have an opportunity to voice their concerns directly to the police.
The academy will be divided into two components that consist of Basic and Advanced Classes. Each Academy will have five sessions.
The Basic Academy will focus on an overview of police department divisions, patrol tactics and traffic stops, introduction to investigations and crime scenes. Classes will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the following schedule:
- Wednesday, February 8, 2023
- Wednesday, February 15, 2023
- Wednesday, February 22, 2023
- Wednesday, March 1, 2023
- Wednesday, March 8, 2023
The Advanced Academy will consist of higher level patrol tactics and traffic stops, use of force simulations and firearms familiarization. The advanced class will be open those who complete the Basic Class or prior CPA graduates. The Advanced Class will be held following the completion of the basic class. Anyone who has successfully completed the basic academy or any prior academy graduates are eligible to apply for the Advanced Academy.
Anyone is welcome to apply for the free academy. Every applicant will undergo a background check.
The goal is to increase the knowledge of each student on “who, what, when, why and how” the Carbondale Police Department operates.
Tap here for more information about the academy or to complete a secure online form.
Applications can also be picked up in person at the Carbondale Police Department located at 501 South Washington Street.
Those with questions about the academy can contact Randy Mathis at 457-3200 ext. 402 or at rmathis@explorecarbondale.com.
Applications are due by Monday, February 6 by 5 p.m.
The Citizens Police Academy is not a part of the hiring process for the position of police officer with the City of Carbondale.
