CITIZENS’ POLICE ACADEMY

HISTORY OF THE CITIZENS’ POLICE ACADEMY
The Citizens’ Police Academy (CPA) was started in 1992 and is designed to give participants a working knowledge of the Fresno Police Department. The course consists of a series of classes and discussions that are held each Wednesday evening from 6:00-9:00 p.m. for 17 weeks at police headquarters. 
The academy provides an in-depth view of the world of law enforcement and allows citizens to meet and talk with speakers from throughout the Department. The academy is offered throughout the year in English, Spanish and Southeast Asian Languages.

PROGRAM GOALS

One of the goals of the CPA is to help the residents of Fresno to better understand how the police department functions in the community. It is hoped that all graduates of the program will become familiar with the men and women who protect the city, and will consider participating in one or more of the many opportunities that are available to volunteers in the Fresno Police Department.

BENEFITS

Citizens will gain an expanded perspective of law enforcement and their police department. They will also gain an enhanced understanding and appreciation
for the dedication and professionalism exhibited by Fresno Police officers. 

WHY ATTEND

Community-based policing plays an important and vital role in reducing crime in any community. Therefore, the Fresno Police Department instituted the Citizens’ Police Academy as a way to improve communication and obtain citizen input and support throughout the city.  
It is our hope that graduates will become partners with the Department in identifying problems and solutions to crime issues that are affecting our community.  Upon completion of the course, graduates will be uniquely qualified for volunteer assignments in the Fresno Police Department, and will be invited to join the Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni Association.  Course sessions will cover:

SWAT              Mounted Patrol            Domestic Violence            Homicide          Elder Abuse
K-9 Unit          Internal Affairs          Police Reserves               Robbery           Firing Range
Gangs             Sexual Assault            Missing Persons               Skywatch          Burglary

WHO CAN ATTEND

Individuals who are at least 18 years old and live or work in the Fresno area are invited to participate. There will be a $20.00 fee to cover the costs of materials.  Class size is limited and applications will be accepted on a first-come basis.

For additional information or an application, please contact:
CSO Lindsay Hughes - (559) 621-2113
Or email CitizenCorps@Fresno.gov