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Civilian Police Academy

April 11, 2024 by in CommunityGovernment

CIVILIAN POLICE ACADEMY 

The Civilian Police Academy is an 8-week, no cost program designed to create a better understanding and build relationships between citizens and the Freeport Police Department through a series of evening classes. Class sessions will meet every Thursday at 6:00 P.M. from May 2 to June 20, 2024.

Participation is limited, and applications are kept on file for the next session in the event that Spring 2024 spots are filled.

The classes will provide an in-depth view into various aspects of law enforcement. It is an educational and informative program that allows citizens the opportunity to learn about the issues that affect law enforcement efforts in the City of Freeport, and how to develop a partnership with the police department. This program also allows the participant a unique “hands-on” opportunity in a variety of law enforcement tasks and responsibilities.

GOALS

  • To create a better understanding and communication between citizens and police through education
  • To develop a partnership between the citizens and police in order to establish a safer community

BENEFITS

When residents take a more personal interest in their city and the protection of their neighborhoods, they enjoy a safer and closer relationship with their neighbors. Upon completion of the course, graduates receive a diploma, academy mug, and class photo.

WHY

Community Oriented Policing plays an important and vital role in reducing crime in any community. The Freeport Police Department instituted the Civilian Police Academy to improve communication and obtain input and support throughout the city. It is the Police Department’s hope that the graduates will become partners in identifying problems and solutions to the crime issues that affect Freeport. Graduates will take their knowledge back to their neighborhoods where they can use it to enhance the quality of neighborhood life.

WHO CAN ATTEND

Individuals who apply for the Civilian Police Academy must be at least 18 years of age. They must also live, work, own property in the City of Freeport, or attend Highland Community College.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In addition to attending the class sessions, each participant must complete a four-hour ride-along with a patrol unit and spend two hours in the 9-1-1 center.

CURRICULUM SUMMARY

  • Department overview and tour
  • Criminal justice system/ Elements of offenses
  • Patrol procedures/ Traffic laws- Accident investigations
  • Domestic violence/ Youth services/ Victim services
  • Criminal investigations/ Evidence collection procedures
  • Use of force laws/ Shoot-Don’t-Shoot decisions
  • Community oriented policing & problem solving
  • Administration/ Office of professional standards
  • Patrol ride-along/ Student-officer interaction
  • Communications/ Enhanced 9-1-1 system

Instructors include members of the Freeport Police Department.

Spring 2024 Application here. Please return the completed application to the Freeport Police Department at 320 W. Exchange St. 

DEADLINE TO APPLY: April 24, 2024

 

 

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