The goal of the Citizen Police Academy is to help local residents gain a better understanding of law enforcement activities in their community and to partner with local police departments in addressing neighborhood crime issues.
The Citizen Police Academy is a mechanism for local police departments to inform the public of how they function within the community, improve communication and obtain citizen input, assistance and support.
The instruction provided at the Citizen Police Academy will include topics that are relevant to Champaign County, such as: crime prevention and community based policing, drugs, gangs, school safety, DUI enforcement, citizen police contacts, use of force, firearms orientation and the law, crime scene investigation, a tour of the Champaign County Jail and a patrol ride-along with your local department.
The Citizen Police Academy consists of blocks of instruction conducted over a 10-week period. Classes will be held at the Police Training Institute on the University of Illinois campus and various local sites. The class meets for three hours, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm each Thursday evening when in session.
The academy is excellent for neighborhood watch block captains, persons considering a career in law enforcement or anyone seeking more knowledge about police operations and training. If you are interested in attending the academy, please contact your local police department for an application.
The 2012 session of the Citizen Police Academy will be held April 12-June 14 at the Police Training Institute.
City of Champaign residents may contact:
Rene A. Dunn
Assistant to the Chief of Police for Community Services
Phone: (217) 403-6912
