Citizens Police Academy

What is the Citizens Police Academy?

The Citizens Police Academy is a twelve week program designed to provide San Juan County residents, in an academy setting, first-hand information about how their police department works. Participation in the academy requires a commitment of one night a week for the twelve week period. Classes are held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. The instruction is at the Owen Landdeck Training Center at Safety City, located at 428 County Road 6480, Kirtland, NM.

What is the Purpose of the Academy?

The academy is designed to increase understanding between citizens and the police through education. Our intent is to acquaint citizens with law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system, and provide increased understanding of the tasks police officers face in their daily work. With better understanding it becomes easier for police and citizens to find realistic solutions to neighborhood problems.

Who Teaches the Academy Sessions?

The instructors are officers and personnel from the department who teach in their own areas of expertise. Each has years of training and experience in the subject. The officers also bring street experience into the classroom.

What Subjects are Included?

The sessions include demonstrations by the FPD SWAT team and K-9 units, information about domestic violence, gangs, traffic problems, community policing, investigations, and even a little history about where we are and where were going. In some of the sessions members will have the option of “firing” several different weapons both simulated and real. They will also have the option of participating in a team building activity called R.O.P.E.S. Each member will ride along in a patrol car for a shift to see first hand what officers see and hear, and what they are trained to do under a variety of circumstances. Throughout, participants are encouraged to ask questions and discuss topics with department personnel.

How are Participants Selected?

The department attempts to reflect the broadest possible range within our community; this includes young and old, men and women, and representatives of special ethnic, cultural and civic groups. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age to apply.