Saint Paul Citizen’s Police Academy

ST. PAUL (Aug.28, 2012) — Signups are underway for the next session of the Saint Paul Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA).

The classes begin Dec. 19, 2012 and continue through Feb. 27, 2013, taking place Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Twenty-five community members will participate in training modeled after the Police Academy program that police officers complete. There is no cost to CPA participants.

They will take part in classwork and practical exercises on modern police techniques while learning about the aspects of law enforcement, including the history and evolution of police departments, officer recruitment and training through defensive tactics and firearm issues. Hands-on classes will offer the participants an opportunity to experience Shoot/Don’t Shoot scenarios at various training facilities, handling police batons in the gymnasium and getting acquainted with the department’s four-legged members, the canines–and the horses of the Mounted Patrol.

Topics will include: criminal and patrol procedures; introductions to use of force and firearms; defensive tactics; officer survival tactics; complaint issues; the Emergency Communication system and 9-1-1; community policing; forensic procedures; criminal investigation techniques; volunteer opportunities; ordnance disposal techniques and procedures used by S.WA.T.

The academy gives community members a better understanding of the issues and situations that officers of the Saint Paul Police Department become involved in such as narcotics traffic in neighborhoods, illegal gang activities and violence in today’s society. The CPA also provides the department with essential feedback regarding crime and safety in Saint Paul’s neighborhoods.

Instructors for the training are members of the Saint Paul Police Department who are assigned and charged with responsibilities in their subject matter. Members who complete an 80 percent attendance will be awarded a certificate of completion at a ceremony presided over by Chief of Police Tom Smith. In addition, successful completion of the CPA is a prerequisite to serve on the Saint Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCIARC).

The Citizen Police Academy is not intended to serve as accredited law enforcement courses but merely to provide insight to the internal workings of the police department.

To take part in the academy, applicants must:

• Be resident of Saint Paul or own a business/property within the city limits.

• Be 21 years of age or older.

• Not have a criminal history.

Participants may also be designated by Chief Smith.

Applications for the academy are available by calling CPA Coordinator Don Luna at 651-266-5583 and must be submitted by Oct. 15, 2012.