The Paducah Police Department's Citizens' Police Academy (CPA), for citizens 18 years of age or older, focuses on building a strong partnership between the police department and the community. The Paducah Police Department also offers a Junior Citizens' Police Academy for teens ages 13 to 18 (see information at bottom of page).

Since its inception in March 2002, the CPA has graduated 17 classes of more than 320 citizens. It is taught once a year on Thursday nights over 11 consecutive weeks. Each Thursday evening session lasts approximately three hours.  The CPA is free to anyone 18 years of age and older who lives in the community. All applicants are subject to a criminal background check prior to acceptance. Upon graduation, participants are encouraged to join the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS).

Some of the topics covered during the 11 week class are criminal investigation, crime scene processing, evidence, firearms, and law enforcement procedures, in addition to presentations by specialized units including the Drug and Vice Enforcement (DAVE), SWAT, K-9, and the Bomb Squad.

Applying to the CPA (for adults 18 years of age or older)

Apply now.  Class #18 will start August 1, 2013. 

Citizens' Police Academy Brochure and Application >> 

Contact: Sergeant George Johnson

(270) 444-8545 ext. 2217

Email

Junior Citizens' Police Academy

The Paducah Police Department is offering a five day Junior Citizens’ Police Academy in June 2013. The free program will be Monday through Friday, June 17-21, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The program is for area youth ages 13 to 18 who may be interested in law enforcement as a career.  The class is limited to 24 participants.  The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2013.  There is a possibility that the academy may be offered twice in 2013.

Junior Citizens' Police Academy Application >>

The program includes classroom lectures and hands-on activities. Lunch will be provided each day. The teens will learn about patrol tactics, investigations, court proceedings, and crime scene processing. Students also will leran abou the department's specialized units including the bomb squad and SWAT team.  Students will not be allowed to shoot firearms; however, they will be introduced to the types of firearms and weapons used by officers and be able to use simulated training equipment.

The department launched the Junior Citizens' Police Academy in July 2012.  The initial class was held for only three days.  Due to its popularity, the academy has expanded to a five day program thanks to a $2500 donation from BNSF Railway.

For any questions, please email Officer Chris Bolton or call 444-8548.