NCJ Number
183885
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 69 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2000 Pages: 16-21
Date Published
May 2000
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Citizen Police Academies (CPA) provide the public with a working knowledge of their police agency’s mission and operations, create mutual trust between police and citizens, and enable police officers to maintain relationships with the public by involving citizens in crime prevention efforts.
Abstract
The CPA concept evolved in Great Britain and first appeared in the United States in the Orlando, Fla., Police Department in 1985. CPAs represent a shortened version of police academies. Their success depends on administrative support, the strength of the curriculum and staff members, and the selection of students. Benefits include increased public understanding of the police agency and mission, and the development of volunteer organizations. Agencies can limit CPA program costs to fit within their budgets. Police agencies should also evaluate their CPA programs to determine their effectiveness and potential improvements. Thoroughly implementing the crucial elements of a CPA will help avoid potential pitfalls and produce long-term benefits for both agencies and the community. Photographs and reference notes