Program features eight 2.5-hour interactive courses taught by Lakewood officers.
LAKEWOOD, Wash. – The Lakewood Police Department (LPD) Citizens Academy is an immersive course on the experience of serving and protecting Lakewood. During the eight-week program, participants will undergo some of the same training as LPD officers on their way to a deep understanding of the nature and experience of police work.
“Our hope is that participants will leave this program with new perspective towards police. It’s a chance for residents to train with us, to step into our shoes, and to ask questions and engage with us. This is the best way I can imagine to get to know your police department.”
– Lt. Andy Gildehaus, Patrol Specialty Unit, Lakewood Police Department
Eight 2.5-hour courses will introduce participants to important police disciplines, including investigations, interviewing, body cameras, K-9 units, use of force policy, emergency preparedness, community policing, and crisis response.
In addition to the Thursday courses, two one-hour Saturday sessions allow participants to undergo driver training similar to LPD’s, and simulated firearms training.
Courses are held on Thursday nights between Sept. 2 and Oct. 21. from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. Applicants must be 18 or older, and must complete an application form.
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