The Lewisville Police Department is opening its doors to civilians interested in getting a closer look at the inner workings of law enforcement. Starting this September, the department is accepting applications from residents who want to enroll in the Citizen Police Academy, a program aimed at fostering a deeper understanding between the public and its protectors, according to the City of Lewisville, Texas.
The 10-week academy, which was first reported on by the city of Lewisville, will run from Thursday, Sept. 5 until Thursday, Nov. 7, with sessions held from 9 a.m. to noon. Classes will unfold in the Lower Level of Lewisville City Hall, located at 151 W. Church Street. However, space is at a premium as class size is limited to just 30 people, ensuring an intimate environment for participants to immerse themselves in various law enforcement topics—ranging from K-9 program intricacies to the high-stakes tactical maneuvers of SWAT operations. A residency or employment within Lewisville is a requisite for all applicants, and importantly, there is no financial barrier to joining.
The syllabus for the academy is designed to touch upon various facets of the Lewisville Police Department's day-to-day operations including Crisis Negotiations, Jail Operations, Communications, and Criminal Investigations. Further lessons will tackle Traffic Operations, Narcotics, and more. This initiative is more than an educational setup; it's an invitation for citizens to step into the shoes of those who wear the badge, even if just for a time.
Upon graduation, participants are expected to serve as conduits of law enforcement knowledge, sharing their experiences with fellow residents. The transition from student to teacher symbolizes a forward step in community-policing relations. Graduates also gain the opportunity to participate in "ride-alongs," offering a firsthand view of patrol officers in action. For the continuing enthusiasts, there's the CPA Alumni Association, which opens doors to volunteering for the COP (Citizen On Patrol) program—providing the police with assistant sets of watchful eyes and ears in the community.
