NCJ Number
169692
Journal
Telemasp Bulletin Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: (May 1994) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1994
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This bulletin presents the findings of a survey that solicited information on Citizen Police Academies (CPA's) in Texas.
Abstract
A list of Texas police agencies believed to be sponsoring a CPA was obtained from the CPA National Database. Of the 65 agencies that were sent questionnaires, 27 returned usable ones. Twenty-two cited the purpose for conducting a CPA as the education of citizens concerning the operations, policies, and procedures of the police department. Another frequently cited reason for the CPA is the promotion of communication between the citizens and members of the police agency in an effort to improve relations. Topics taught in the CPA range from traditional police activities, such as accident investigation and crime scene investigation, to newer, less traditional areas such as victim services, cults, gangs, and police stress and trauma counseling. All levels of police personnel are involved in teaching in CPA's. Police departments use a variety of methods to recruit participants. The most popular method is by word of mouth. Gender of participants is almost evenly balanced. The survey revealed that officers who were previously reluctant to endorse CPA's tended to support them after being involved. The intrinsic benefits of the CPA apparently overcome any economic costs incurred by the departments. All responding agencies recommended that other agencies implement a CPA. Guidelines for the development of a CPA are provided. 6 tables and 7 references