Citizens Police Academy
The Citizens Police Academy is an eleven week course of study that gives the citizen an opportunity to learn about a wide range of law enforcement topics. The class meets once a week from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at the Law Enforcement Center. Lectures focus on such topics as traffic enforcement, budgeting and administration, recruitment and training, use of force policy, search and seizure, and vice offense investigation. Participants are encouraged to take part in the ride-along program and a Saturday session at the police firing range. Two sessions are offered each year. If you would like more information or to receive an application, please contact Lt. Tony Dallman (757) 253-2046 or Major Brad Rinehimer at (757) 253-2018.
Mission Statement of The Citizen's Police Academy Alumni
As ambassadors of the James City County Police Department, we pledge to enhance public relations, provide community service, and to promote the spirit, integrity and intent of the Department through developing partnerships with fellow citizens.
The James City County Police Department began its first Citizen Police Academy on March 16, 1994. The concept of the Citizen Police Academy started in England in 1977. The first such course in the USA was at the Orlando, Florida Police Department in 1985.
The Academy meets for once a week for eleven weeks. The classes are sequential in nature beginning with an overview of philosophy of the Department, a segment on each Division, and then breaking into smaller components of police work such as DUI enforcement, RADAR, handgun safety, and S.W.A.T. The students can participate in the Ride-Along program while attending the Citizen Academy.
The purpose of the Academy is to educate the public in the operations of the James City County Police Department, the abilities and limitations of police work in general, and create a more cooperative attitude between the police and the community we serve. After graduating from the Citizen Police Academy each graduate is invited to become a member of the Citizen Police Academy Alumni.
Comments or questions about the Citizen Police Academy or Alumni, contact Lt. Tony Dallman