APD accepting applications for 43rd Citizen’s Police Academy
ALBANY, Ga. – Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a cop but didn’t want to change job titles? Well, the Albany Police Department (APD) is having the 43rd Citizen’s Police Academy where you walk a mile in their shoes.
The Citizen’s Police Academy will run from Tuesday, March 11th to Tuesday, April 29th. Spots are filling up quickly, so be sure to sign up soon!
This is an incredible opportunity to dive into topics such as investigations, patrol, gang awareness, and much more, giving participants a deeper understanding of the critical work law enforcement does every day.
“So, the Citizen’s Police Academy is an opportunity where we bring community members from Albany to Dougherty County who come in, some people who live here. Some people have businesses here. And, we introduce them to the operations of the Albany Police Department (APD) along with the couple other organizations that support us on a, daily. And, it gives an opportunity for community members to ask questions that they may have always wanted to know,” said Chief Michael Persley, Chief of Police, Albany Police Department (APD).
The event has been a success for 42 years, with citizens returning year after year.
It’s easy to judge the work of officers, but this program offers a deeper understanding of what it takes to serve with the Albany Police Department (APD) and keep the people of Dougherty County safe.
“So, we used to have 12 weeks, but we reduced it back to eight to be considered a people’s time. And, at the end, there is a ride along that they get to do, with the officers. But, in between, you know, but beforehand, they understand what patrol does, investigations does support services. Our Special Investigating Unit, SWAT team, just look at everything that the police department has. They get tours of the building, certain areas like our, real-time Information Center. They understand what technology does for us and how it helps us in crime,” said Chief Persley.
If you want to register for the Citizen’s Police Academy, click here for the details on how to sign up.
Gabe Hutton reporting.
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