If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be an officer on the Port St. Lucie police force, or ever wanted to meet officers and others who work within the department, here’s your chance.
For the next eight weeks, the Port St. Lucie Police Department is hosting its free Citizens Police Academy.
“It’s an excellent way to meet the officers,” said volunteer coordinator Thomas Andrew.
Andrew has been involved with the academy since 2007 and has yet to tire of sitting through the classes and demonstrations.
“It never gets boring,” Andrew said. And, even with all that time, “I’m not an expert on anything.”
The academy is a time commitment, though. The three-hour class meets twice a week – and there’s one Saturday field trip out to the Emergency Operations Center and 911 call center.
Academy participants will hear from the police department’s SWAT team and get the chance to gear up. “It’s so heavy!” is a common comment Andrew hears during that portion of the academy.
The agency’s K-9 unit will also visit the class … but beware of any breaks the class takes – odds are an officer will hide something among your stuff for the K-9 to find.
“The dog found it right away,” Andrew said of one academy when an object had been hidden for the K-9. It’s “actually fascinating,” he said, how the dog is able to sort out all the odors and lock in on the one it has been trained to find.
Another class will feature the Crime Scene Investigation team, according to Andrew. The crew will demonstrate how to take fingerprints as well as how to lift prints from objects. “Everybody loves doing it,” Andrew said of the teachers, officers, trainers and others who will participate in leading the academy.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department launched the Citizens Police Academy in 1994 and has continued it with just a short hiatus through now. The agency aims to host at least one academy annually – and if demand is strong enough, Andrew said the department could host a second one.
Those who participate in the academy come from all walks of life.
“It runs the gamut,” he said of the variety of residents who attend. Some are new residents who just want to get to know their local law enforcement. Others are young adults considering a career in law enforcement. And some are retired law enforcement themselves – such as Andrew – who want to stay connected.
The academy is free, but space is limited to about 25 participants. In a pinch, Andrew said the classes could make room for 30, but then the quarters get a little cramped. Those who don’t register in time can be placed on a wait list and, if an opening becomes available, will be notified.
Andrew said the Citizens Police Academy is “a good time.” Participants start as strangers and leave as friends. They even have a graduation ceremony and are presented a certificate.
To register for the upcoming Citizens Police Academy, which starts Jan. 7 and runs through Feb. 27, call Thomas Andrew at 772-344-4052. Classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
