Thursdays | 10 sessions | 6:00 - 9:00 |March 7 - May 9 The Durango Police Department will begin the 24th session of the Citizens' Police Academy. The CPA is an interactive, 10-week class providing insight into the operation of the Durango Police Department and its role in keeping the community safe.

The Academy is designed to increase understanding through education between citizens and police. We intend to acquaint citizens with law enforcement's role in the criminal justice system and provide an increased awareness and overview of police work. As a caution, the Academy is not designed to make its participants certified police officers. The contents of the course are informative only, and it is not intended that the participants have the authority of or act as police officers.

The sessions include information about domestic violence, gangs, patrol operations, traffic problems, community policing, tactical response, investigations, and a little history about where we are and where we are going. In one of the sessions, participants will have the option of firing several different weapons. They will also have the option of participating in an unarmed self-defense training session. Each participant will "ride along" in a patrol car to see first-hand what officers see and hear and what they are trained to do in various circumstances. Participants may also observe the Central Communications Center and listen to calls for service and dispatch activity. Throughout the Academy, participants are encouraged to ask questions and discuss topics with members of the Department.

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to better understand the Durango Police Department. Apply online or pick up an application at the Department.

The application deadline is February 22nd. Contact Jess Hayden at (970) 375-4701 or Sergeant Will Sweetwood at (970) 375-4786 for more information.