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1. What is the Citizen Police Academy?

The Citizen Police Academy is a look into the values, philosophy, and operations of the St. Charles Police Department. Designed for the residents of St. Charles, the Academy educates citizens about the how’s and whys of the St. Charles Police Department.

Students are encouraged to share this realistic view of the police department with other citizens to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and bring a closer relationship between the community and the department. If you have any questions, please contact the St. Charles Police Department.

2. What topics are covered?

A wide variety of topics are included in the Citizen Police Academy. The topics will address both parts of the police department, those readily visible by the public and those seldom seen. Some of the topics and divisions that may be covered in the academy are:

• Operational Services to include Traffic Enforcement
• Investigative Services
• Identification and Forensics
• Mounted and Canine Units
• Crisis Negotiations
• DARE and School Resource Officer programs

Included in the curriculum are interactive exposures to Subject Control, and the opportunity to participate in the Ride-Along Program. If you have any questions, please contact the St. Charles Police Department.

3. What is the purpose?

The purpose of the St. Charles Citizen Police Academy is to provide information to the citizens who attend so they may make informed judgments about the St. Charles Police Department. Understanding how and why the police department operates can dispel suspicions and misconceptions, increasing police / community rapport through this educational process. This interaction allows the police department to be more aware of the community’s concerns brought forth by the Citizen Police Academy Students.

This establishes open lines of communication and cooperation in the shared goal of achieving the best professional police service for the citizens of St. Charles. If you have any questions, please contact the St. Charles Police Department.

4. When is the academy?

The Citizen Police Academy meets on Monday evenings for 3 hours. The Academy runs for 8 weeks and is held at the City of St. Charles Criminal Justice Center. Classes meet from 6-9 p.m. There is no cost to the students. Casual clothes are recommended. One academy class is held per year, at the end of January.

If you have any questions, please contact the St. Charles Police Department.

5. Who can apply?

Applications will be accepted under the following provisions. Applicants must be at least 21 years old or older with no felony convictions, or misdemeanor convictions within 1 year. Applicants must also be a resident, owner or employee of a business within the city of St. Charles, who can make a commitment to attend the eight week course. If you have any questions, please contact the St. Charles Police Department.