The Fayetteville Police Department June 2 held the graduation for its third annual Citizens Police Academy. The academy was hosted in an effort to increase the community involvement with the department and offer insight into the services provided.

Department Public Information Officer Steve Crawshaw said the purpose of the Citizens Police Academy is to foster better communication between citizens and police through education. Academy graduates can share their knowledge and experiences with the community as the opportunity arises. Everyone benefits from enhancing citizen understanding of the role and function of their police department, Crawshaw said.

The Citizens Police Academy consisted of 2-hour classes held each week over 12 weeks. The June 2 graduation followed previous academy ceremonies in 2007 and 2008.

“The instruction was comprehensive, covering a different area of the police department each week. Certified police officers, supervisors, and civilian instructors with particular expertise conducted classes on each topic,” said Crawshaw.

“Additional activities such as ‘ride-alongs’ with officers and firearms training were included in the academy.”

Crawshaw said topics routinely covered by various officers include processing crime scenes, fingerprinting, domestic violence, crimes against children, DUIs and traffic laws, accident investigation, K-9 activities, self-defense and, from the district attorney’s office, criminal procedures and the court process.

“They see a little of everything so they can understand what we do, why we do it and what goes on behind the scenes of law enforcement,” Crawshaw explained.

As for other Fayetteville residents that might want to participate, Crawshaw said the department is planning to host more classes to create a nucleus of well-informed citizens who possess greater insight into police practices and services. The Citizens Police Academy is open to the community.

Fayetteville Police also runs an annual Junior Police Academy for youngsters. Crawshaw said the topics covered are similar to those in the adult academy, though geared to children. Provided in four 8-hour days, the academy also utilizes team-building games and exercises, said Crawshaw.

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