Citizen Police Academy (CPA) Overview
The Hope Mills Police Department is proud to present a program that provides insight to the public on the responsibilities, operations of our Department and promotion of citizen volunteerism.
We have designed the Citizen Police Academy (CPA) to accomplish several goals. The most important goal is to open channels of communication between the citizen's of Hope Mills and their Police Department. Additionally, we want to develop an understanding of the police role in the community. The objective of the Academy is not to make police officers out of the graduates, but to make them better informed citizens, with an accurate knowledge of our many responsibilities and functions.
The CPA is a 12 week program. The instructors will all be members of the Hope Mills Police Department, and they will provide instruction and information concerning a particular area of their profession.
Attendees will have an opportunity to experience the "real" police department with some "hands-on" training.
Requirements for participants include:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have no criminal history other than minor traffic violations (background checks will be performed)
- Be physically able to meet training requirements
- Commit to attend 12 weekly training sessions lasting 2 - 4 hours
Sign any required waivers or agreements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of conducting a Citizen’s Police Academy?
To give the public information on how the Police Department works and its policies and procedures, through a series of classes involving instruction by police officers.
Where did the concept originate?
The program originated in Orlando, Florida in 1984. Orlando was the first city in the United States to start a Citizen’s Police Academy.
What was the Hope Mills Police Department’s incentive for starting a Citizen’s Police Academy?
We feel the more information the public has about the police department, less fears and misconceptions will exist.
When does the class meet?
Students meet at Hope Mills Police Department facilities. There will be a total of approximately forty (40) hours of instruction by police officers. All classes are free.
Who attends the Citizen’s Police Academy?
Students range from 18 years of age and above. We encourage architects, bankers, homemakers, students, retirees, teachers, neighborhood groups and professionals to attend the classes.
How do you apply?
You must be at least 18 years old and live or work in the Hope Mills area. Complete the Citizen’s Police Academy application and mail it to the address below. If you have any questions or need more information, call Glen Gasch, Citizen’s Police Academy Coordinator at (910) 429-3518.
When are classes?
The Citizens Police Academy will start Monday - August 1, 2011. The department is now accepting applications. Class size i
Mailing Address:
Citizen’s Police Academy
5776 Rockfish Road
Hope Mills, N.C. 28348