The Citizens Police Academy was implemented in Portsmouth in 1996 and is designed to educate the public and make them part of our team against crime. The Citizens Police Academy develops rapport between officers and citizens eliminating barriers to communication. The police officers gain a fresh perspective on community concerns from the citizens they serve. The Citizens Police Academy provides a hands-on forum for learning various aspects of law enforcement. The citizens gain a more realistic perspective of the police officer's job. The community tends to develop more confidence and pride in their police department. With continued guidance from the police department these citizens learn to assist in improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods and community. The officers can readily identify advocates and contacts in all pockets of the community.
The Citizens Police Academy is a ten week hands-on training program open to adult residents of Portsmouth. Once selected, the citizens meet weekly at Portsmouth Police Headquarters. Patrol officers and rank personnel present various aspects of police work including the following:
This forum provides ample opportunity for small group and individual discussions with police officers. The citizens also participate in a four hour partnering with an officer in a ride-a-long program. The Academy hosts a graduation ceremony in Town Hall chambers with family and friends of the graduates. Portsmouth Department heads and the members of the Town Council join the chief of police to recognize the commitment of the police officers and the achievement of the graduating citizens.
Applications are available at Portsmouth Police Headquarters