The State College, Penn State, Ferguson Township, and Patton Township police departments are inviting local residents and students to take part in their Centre County Citizens’ Police Academy this fall.
The academy is a free, nine-session program designed to offer a look behind the badge and to provide information about training and policies. The primary objective of the citizens’ academy is to foster a better relationship between the community and their local law enforcement officers.
Through the program, citizens will become more informed about police services, activity, and conduct in certain situations. Police also benefit by becoming more familiar with the community they’re serving and interacting with concerned residents.
Classes may include:
- Defensive Tactics / Use of Force
- PSU/SCPD Bomb Squad
- PSU K-9 Unit
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC)
- Firearms
- Tactical Response Team (TRT)
- Police Scenarios
- Department of Public Safety Communications (911 call center)
- Centre County Court System
- Ride-Alongs
All State College Borough, College Township, Harris Township, Ferguson Township, and Patton Township residents, as well as all Penn State students, are invited to participate. However, the class size is limited to 30 participants. Applicants must be 18 and pass a background check.
Candidates from diverse ethnic backgrounds, cultural backgrounds, orientations, age groups, communities, and professions are encouraged to apply. The academy wants to enrich class discussions and strengthen community relationships by taking a more inclusive approach to the class dynamic.
More information is available here.
