The Decatur Police Department hosts a Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) for residents and business owners 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.
| Department Functions & Staffing | Traffic Enforcement |
| Criminal Law & Crime Trends in Decatur | Drug Trends |
| Special Units & Criminal Investigations | Firearms Familiarization & Safety |
| Community Policing & Crime Prevention | Use of Force |
| Recruitment & Training | Juvenile Procedures |
Participants in the Citizen's Police Academy (CPA) will have the unique opportunity to experience police work firsthand by completing a ride-along with an officer during their shift. Additionally, there will be opportunities for tours of the DeKalb County Medical Examiner’s Office and the DeKalb County Jail.
To apply for the CPA, applicants must be at least 21 years of age by the first day of class and must undergo a limited background investigation conducted by the Decatur Police Department. This background check will include a review of criminal history and an identification/driver’s license check to verify identity. Furthermore, applicants must meet the standards set by the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council to be accepted into the CPA program. Preference will be given to residents and business owners within the city.
The Citizen’s Police Academy is an excellent way to become more informed about police operations and to build working relationships with local law enforcement staff. Completing the CPA is a prerequisite for joining the C.A.P.S. (Citizen's Assisting Public Safety) volunteer program.