Crime Prevention
Citizen Police Academy
As a part of a continuing program to develop citizen awareness and understanding the role of law enforcement, the Rochester Police Department has instituted the Citizen Police Academy. The Academy is a revolutionary concept in law enforcement and police community relations designed for citizens of all backgrounds and occupations.
The Academy is held in a classroom setting with some "hands-on" instruction. The topics covered are:
- An Overview of the Police Department
- Communications Unit
- Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving
- Patrol Procedures
- Records Unit
- Crime Prevention
- Narcotics and Vice
- Gangs
- Emergency Response Unit (ERU)
- Firearms Training
- Criminal Investigations
- Driving and Shooting Simulator
- Chemical Munitions Training
- Criminal Law
- Arrest Procedures
-
Officer Survival
It is important to understand that this Academy is designed for educational and informational purposes ONLY. The graduates will not be police officers, reserve officers, or vigilantes, but will be better informed citizens. They will be in a better position to relate their experiences to friends and co-workers. They will also have the opportunity to express their concerns to the police department employees.
Student Commitment and Requirements
The Academy requires an eight week commitment from the students. The Academy is held one night a week, three hours per night, for eight weeks. The Academy concludes with a graduation ceremony held at the Government Center on the eighth week. The Academy graduates and their families are invited to take part in this celebration with the Academy staff and instructors.
Application Procedure
For an application form contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (507) 328-6890. Although there is no registration fee for the Academy, applicants are required to fill out an application form and authorize a criminal history background check in order to attend. The background check will be for Academy purposes only and will be kept confidential.