Citizens' Police Academy

Join us for an exhilarating six-week Citizens' Police Academy, where you’ll get an inside look into your local agency, the Greenville Police Department. This program is designed to be informative, exciting, and welcoming to all community members eager to learn. Here’s a sneak peek of the topics:

• Traffic Safety – Discover the science of traffic enforcement, learn about road safety, and tour a police vehicle to see how officers handle traffic incidents firsthand.
• Media Relations – Get insights into the dynamic world of police-media relations and understand how media shapes public perception and keeps communities informed.
• Canine Unit – Meet our four-legged heroes, learn about K9 training techniques, and witness impressive demonstrations showcasing the incredible skills of our police dogs.
• Forensic Services – Dive into the fascinating world of forensics, exploring crime scene analysis, evidence collection, and the crucial role of science in solving crimes.
• Emergency Response Team – Experience the adrenaline rush as you engage with our ERT members, understanding their role in police response and getting some hands-on experience with some of their equipment.
• Gang Unit – Gain insight into gang dynamics, their impact on communities, and how law enforcement works tirelessly to combat gang-related activities.
• Response to Resistance and Aggression – Understand the principles behind the use of force by police officers, emphasizing de-escalation techniques and the importance of preserving life.
• Active Shooter Training – Learn the critical skills for responding to active shooter situations, including lockdown procedures and what to do to protect yourself and others.

Our Citizens' Police Academy is an opportunity to build stronger connections between the community and law enforcement while fostering a deeper appreciation for the critical work our officers do every day. Join us, and let’s make our community safer together!

Registration can be completed online via this link. Meals will be provided. The class will be limited to 25 people. Priority will be given to Greenville residents, the order of receipt of the applications, and those living in the extraterritorial jurisdictions (ETJ). Classes will be held on consecutive Thursday evenings beginning at 5:30 p.m. on January 11, 2024, at the police department headquarters.

Applicants must complete four (4) hours of the citizen observer program (ride-along). The acknowledgment release and waiver will be completed on the first night of class. The four (4) hours can be completed anytime during the six-week program.