In order to promote increased cooperation and understanding between the Greenwood Police Department and the citizens they serve, the Greenwood Police Department is hosting its second annual Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA). Our inaugural academy was a resounding success with not only the citizens who attended benefiting, but the officers who instructed gained some insight into the public’s perception of police officers.
The CPA allows officers and citizens to interact in a relaxed environment to foster the exchange of ideas freely and openly. The course is designed to educate citizens on the structure, methods, and goals of the Greenwood Police Department. It is our goal to help the Citizens of Greenwood understand the how’s and why’s of police work, and allow them to meet with officers of the Greenwood Police Department on a personal level.
The CPA is an eight week course which will meet one night per week from 600pm until 900pm in the evening. The first session will be held on September 22, 2009 and culminate in a graduation dinner on November 16, 2009. There will be one Saturday at the John Marquez Memorial Range which is tentatively scheduled for October 10, 2009, however; this may be changed to accommodate participant’s schedules. Participants must be present for seven of the eight weeks in order to successfully graduate from the CPA. If you have any questions, you may contact Lt James Flynn or speak with some of our graduates. Kevin Hesslen, Wells JR High principal, and Terri Hicks, Phil Hicks Shelter Insurance, participated in the initial CPA and can give valuable insights into the program, and anticipate your call.
Class size will be limited to 15 participants and enrollment is contingent on a limited background investigation to be completed prior to beginning of the program. An application for enrollment into the CPA can be picked up at the Greenwood Police Department and should be returned to Lt James Flynn at the Greenwood Police Department. We look forward to meeting with you and making this a positive experience for all our citizens. It is our goal to have mutually beneficial exchange of ideas and information resulting in a greater understanding between the Citizens of Greenwood and their police department.