In an effort to educate those we serve about the role we play in the community the Fitchburg Police Department is hosting its annual Citizen's Police Academy this fall, beginning September 10th. Academy participants will get a first hand look at the inner-workings of the Department and police work through hands-on learning experiences. Classes are held once a week for ten weeks and include the following topics:
-Department Introduction & Tour
-Drugs & Gangs
-Vehicle Contacts/Traffic Stops
-Crime Scene Investigation & Evidence Processing
-Defensive and Arrest Tactics
-Building Searches
-Emergency Vehicle Operation & Control
-Firearms
Academy students will also participate in at least one ride-along with a patrol officer.
The last class presents the participants with a range of scenarios similar to those presented to actual law enforcement academy recruits. The Citizen's Academy is not a typical classroom experience as participants get to use the actual equipment used by officers on a daily basis. Academy graduates leave with a greater understanding of police work and many have come back to participate and assist with Department event.
The 2015 Academy is a 10 week program that meets Thursday nights from 6-9 p.m. beginning September 10th and ending November 12. On October 10th, class will be held on a Saturday morning. Applications are due June 12th and applicants who are selected to participate will be notified the week of July 6th.