The Citizen's Police Academy will introduce citizens to law enforcement issues and St. Joseph County Police procedures.
This course is not intended to train individuals to perform law enforcement duties or take police action. However, it serves as an overview of the training, functions and procedures of the St. Joseph County Police Department. Classes are instructed by department administrators and officers who have experience and considerable knowledge of law enforcement.
Classes are offered in the fall of each year at no cost to the participants. Classes meet each Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for 12 weeks. Individuals 18 and over who live, work, or attend school in St. Joseph County are eligible to apply. Class size is limited, and participants are subject to a criminal background check prior to acceptance.
Graduation ceremonies are held the final week of the academy, at which time students receive an achievement certificate.
CLASS TOPICS
Department Organization, chain of command, rules and procedures
Citizen complaint process
Criminal Investigation, crime scene preservation and evidence collection
Domestic Violence
Juvenile Crime
Use of Force policy
Recruiting and selection process
Crime Prevention
Patrol tactics, accident investigations, police ride-along
Firearms training/safety SWAT
Narcotics investigations, court systems
Tours: St Joseph County Jail, Juvenile Justice System, Metro Homicide
