Citizens Police Academy

The Decatur Police Department hosts a Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) for residents and business owners of Decatur in an effort to increase understanding and awareness through interaction, education and training.  

The 10-week course is offered in the fall on Thursday nights (September-November).  The academy focuses on the inner workings of the police department and how our officers enforce laws and help keep us safe.

Class topics include: 
Department Functions & Staffing                                             Recruitment & Training
Criminal Law & Crime Trends in Decatur                                 Traffic Enforcement
Drug Trends                                                                             Firearms Familiarization & Safety
Special Units & Criminal Investigations                                   Use of Force     
Juvenile Procedures                                                                Community Policing & Crime Prevention

CPA participants will also have the opportunity to leave the classroom and view police work first hand by completing a ride-a-long with an officer during their shift.  There are also opportunities for tours of the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office and DeKalb County Jail.

 

CPA applicants must be a minimum of 21 years of age by the first day of class and must submit to a limited background investigation by the Decatur Police Department. The background check will include criminal history check and Identification/Driver’s License check to confirm identity.  Individuals must meet the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council standards to be accepted into the CPA program. Preference is given to city residents and business owners.

 

The Citizen’s Police Academy is an excellent class to take if you want to become more informed and develop working relationships with your police department staff.  Completion of the CPA is a prerequisite for joining the C.A.P.S. (Citizen’s Assisting Public Safety) volunteer program. 

If you are interested in signing up for the Citizen’s Police Academy, please contact Sgt. John Bender, john.bender@decaturga.com or 678-553-6684.