The Eden Prairie Police Department (EPPD) has just seen its latest batch of residents turned into savvy community protectors with the conclusion of the 2024 Citizens Academy. This year's class, consisting of 18 engaged students, completed their six-week program that schooled participants on the nuts and bolts of law enforcement—from managing dispatch calls to the adrenaline-fueled dynamics of SWAT operations.
Last night marked the final session for the group, who had been taking part in a variety of interactive experiences. Participants were given the opportunity to throw on a SWAT team's gear, play detective during a staged theft investigation, and even try their hand at dusting for fingerprints. According to the EPPD's announcement, these mock exercises allowed the future ambassadors of public safety to walk in the shoes of police officers, grappling with the day-to-day challenges and intricacies of the job.
Providing a glimpse into the more specialized units within the department, the academy attendees met K-9 handlers learning about the integral role these furry officers play in police work. Taking the community engagement a notch deeper, the program also included behind-the-scenes access to the department’s 911 dispatchers—unsung heroes who oft remain the anonymous voices of calm during crisis.
The Citizens Academy is sponsored by the Eden Prairie Crime Prevention Fund and remains a sought-after experience for those interested in demystifying police work and contributing to community safety. For anyone pondering joining a future academy session, keep an eye out on the department's blog and social media accounts for registration details—a chance to gain invaluable insight and perhaps even a transformative perspective on the state of local law enforcement and its interplay with the community it serves.
