February 5, 2016, Canton, MI – The Canton Police Department is planning its next Citizens Police Academy for individuals who are interested in acquiring insight and knowledge on how the police department works to serve the Canton community.
Individuals attending the academy will be educated on the policies and operational procedures of the department through presentations, demonstrations and hands-on activities. Students’ personal knowledge on law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system will be enhanced, as well as their understanding of the training and education required for police officers to effectively handle the challenges of police work.
“Academy participants will gain insight into the difficult challenges law enforcement personnel face on a daily basis through interesting and informative instruction,” said Canton Public Safety Director Todd Mutchler.
The overall mission of the Citizens Police Academy is to develop positive relationships between citizens and police officers, enhancing cooperation, understanding, and general good will.
“We recognize the value of transparency in police work, and believe in the age-old concept of the police are the public and the public are the police,” said Mutchler.
“Last year the department held its first Citizens Police Academy in over 30 years, and it was extremely well-received by participants,” said Mutchler. “We appreciate the public’s interest in our agency and look forward to the opportunity of providing this worthwhile, educational program to the citizens of our community,” adds Mutchler.
Canton Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy will be held for six weeks on Thursdays from 6-9 p.m., starting April 14 – May 19, 2016, (with one Saturday morning session on May 7).
Class size is limited for this free program. Applicant requirements include the following:
• Canton residents only
• Age 21 & over
• No felony convictions; no misdemeanor convictions in the past 3 years
• Applicants subject to a background check
Applications are available online at www.cantonpublicsafety.org, or in person at the front desk of the Canton Police Department located at 1150 S. Canton Center Road. Applications will be accepted now through March 13, 2016. Questions can be directed to Staff Operations Sgt. James Harrison, 734/394-5411.
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