Press Release - 2/18/2014 - Citizens Police Academy applications II ee W1010dwaird gwv>
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Huntsville Police Department to offer Citizens Police Academy - 3/28/14
application deadline - press release
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Kristin Edwards<kedwards@huntsvilletx.gov> Tue, Feb 18, 2014 at 11:15 AM
Bcc: council@huntsvilletx.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE —
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Thank you,
Kristin Edwards, TRMC
Deputy City Secretary
The Huntsville Police Department invites all citizens to applyforthe 2014 Citizens Police Academy,a unique chance for
participants to learn about police operations first-hand.
According to HPD Senior Officers Mark Jenkins and Kenneth Posey,the deadline to apply for the program is March 28,
and those approved to take part in the program will attend sessions every Mondayfrom April 14 to July 7.
"If you have ever wondered how a Huntsville police officer is trained, how the SWATTeam operates,or what it's like to
go on a night-shift ride-along,the Citizens Police Academy promises to be an engaging,one-of-a-kind experience," Posey
said. "Participants will have the opportunity to see and hear about the overwhelming curriculum recruits must master
before becoming part of the HPD.
"Instructors will be real police officers who will take you on accelerated overview of various operations of our
department. It is our goal to increase understanding of police work and develop effective partnerships between the
Huntsville Police Department and our community."
According to Jenkins, the ideal candidate for the Citizens Police Academy is any local citizen with interest in the
department or in law enforcement in general.
"Join us and be part of this important effort - the only investment on your part is three hours of your time for 13
weeks," he said. "What our participants will learn will not only benefit them; when those participants share what they
have learned with family,friends, neighbors and co-workers,we believe that will have a significant impact on the Police
Departmentand on community relations.
"This is going to be an exciting program - participants will tour the County Jail and the Communications Center, ride
with a police officer and explore the Firing Range.There will also be guest speakers from entities including Juvenile and
Adult Probation and the District Attorney's Office."
Posey said he and Jenkins hope to see as many applicants as possible. Those applying to participate in the program
must be 18 or over and live and work in Walker County.
"The HPD strives to make this class hands-on and enjoyable while educating the participants about the police
department and the local criminal justice system," he said. "Our hope is that attendees are committed to getting the
most out of the program as possible and that they will attend at least 10 of the 13 sessions."
To apply for the Citizens Police Academy, visit www.huntsvilletx.gov, scroll over "Departments," select the Police
Department and click on the Citizens Police Academy application information link under"News&Announcements."
For more information,contact HPD at(036) 291-5480.