The Colorado Springs Police Department is now accepting application for its Citizens’ Academy. The Citizens’ Academy educates citizens about the duties and responsibilities of its police officers, policies and procedures of the department, and the citizen’s role in the interaction of citizens and police through a series of classes. In addition to helping the citizens better understand the police department, it in turn helps the police department better understand the citizens and their concerns.
What Topics Are Covered in the Academy?

The Citizens’ Academy covers many topics related to law enforcement in our community including: training, the patrol division (basic police equipment, special response team, narcotics, DUI, laws), the communications division (call taking and dispatching), the criminal investigations division (crime scene investigation, major crimes, and financial crimes), gangs, sexual assault, K-9, SWAT, Internal Affairs, and many more.
Participation in a “ride-along” program is also available, where citizens can actually ride along with patrol officers to see the world through their eyes. Members of the Colorado Springs Police Department will teach the classes; citizens that complete all the classes receive a Certificate of Completion at the final session.
Where does the Academy meet?

The Citizens’ Academy is an 11-week course which meets once a week on Thursdays from 6:00PM to 9:00PM. The Academy is held at the various police facilities throughout the city depending on the type of training being conducted. Although there is no cost to the citizen, a substantial time commitment is required. Citizens are expected to attend all of the sessions.

Who may attend?

Anyone who lives or works in the city of Colorado Springs, is at least 18 years of age, and passes a background investigation may apply for the Citizens’ Academy.

How do I apply?

Applications are currently being accepted for the fall 2017 session which begins on Thursday, August 24, 2017. Deadline for applications is August 3, 2017, by 5:00PM. The application form can be found online: https://cspd.coloradosprings.gov/content/citizens-academy.