Saint Charles Police
Citizen Police Academy
WHAT IS THE CITIZEN POLICE ACADEMY?
The Citizen Police Academy is a look into the values, philosophy, and operations of the
St. Charles Police Department. Designed for the residents of St. Charles, the Academy
educates citizens about the "how’s and whys" of the St. Charles Police Department.
Students are encouraged to share this realistic view of the police department with other
citizens to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and bring a closer relationship
between the community and the department.
WHAT TOPICS ARE COVERED?
A wide variety of topics are included in the Citizen Police Academy. The topics will
address both parts of the police department--those that are seen by the public, and those
areas seldom seen. Some of the topics and divisions that may be covered in the academy
are: Field Operations, Bureau of Investigation, Major Case Squad, Identification &
Forensics, Mounted Unit, K9 Unit, Negotiator Team, DARE & School Resource
Officers, Ride along program, St. Charles County Regional Drug Task Force,
Neighborhood Watch, Use of Force, and Citizens Emergency Response Team.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE?
The purpose of the St. Charles Citizen Police Academy is to provide information to the
citizens who attend so they may make informed judgments about the St. Charles Police
Department. Understanding can dispel suspicions and misconceptions, and increase
police/community rapport through this educational process. The police department, in
turn, becomes more aware of the feelings and concerns of the community from the
students. This will help to establish open lines of communication and cooperation in our
shared goal of achieving the best professional police service for the citizens of St.
Charles.
WHEN IS THE ACADEMY?
The Citizen Police Academy meets on Monday evenings for three (3) hours. The
Academy runs for eight (8) weeks and is held at the City of Saint Charles
Criminal Justice Center. Classes meet from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There is no cost to
the students. Casual clothes are recommended.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Applications will be accepted under the following provisions. Applicants must be at least
21 years old or older with no felony convictions, or misdemeanor convictions within 1
year. Applicants must also be a resident, owner or employee of a business within the city
of St. Charles, who can make a commitment to attend the eight week course.
Updated 08/24/2014