Citizens Police Academy

The City of Carbondale Police Department offers the Citizens Police Academy (CPA) for those wanting to get a first-hand look at the work the officers perform daily. The CPA is designed to develop positive relationships with the police and the community through education. Participants will gain an appreciation of the problems and challenges facing law enforcement.

The Academy is divided into two classes: Basic and Advanced. Each class consists of five sessions. The CPA is free and open to anyone over the age of 18.

Basic Academy

The Basic Academy focuses on an overview of the Police Department's organization, low-level patrol tactics, and an introduction to investigations and crime scenes.

Advanced Academy

The Advanced Academy consists of higher-level patrol tactics, traffic stops, an overview of the Bomb Squad, firearms familiarization, and a court proceedings presentation. This class is open to those who have completed the Basic class or prior Advanced graduates.

Applications

When a Citizen's Police Academy is offered, applications will be available online and at the Carbondale Police Department.

For more information about the Academy, please contact:

Community Resource Officer Randy Mathis, (618) 457-3200 ext. 402
Community Resource Officer Gerald Edwards, (618) 457-3200 ext. 454

History

The Police Department has offered the Citizens Police Academy since 1994. Since its conception, there have been more than 500 graduates, making it one of the most popular programs offered by the Police Department.