Curious about the inner workings of your local police department? Well, the Buckeye Police Department has flung open its doors to the public, with registration now available for the Fall 2025 session of their Citizens Academy, a detailed course designed to educate community members on the nuances of law enforcement, as revealed by a recent announcement.
This isn't your standard, dry classroom experience; over seven consecutive Tuesdays, from September 2 through October 14, participants are treated to a mix of interactive and lecture-style learning at the Buckeye Police Training Facility—closer to a practicum than mere observation. While the convenience of a one-time seminar might appeal to some, these three-and-a-half-hour evening sessions aim to forge a more comprehensive understanding of diverse police operations, ranging from patrol procedures and criminal investigations to the workings of K9 units, the mechanics behind traffic investigations, SWAT operations, and even code enforcement, it's a commitment but also a rare peek behind the curtain.
Eligibility for this free course is broad but not without restrictions: you've got to live or work in Buckeye, have a clean record free of felony arrests, and be at least 18 years of age; they're casting a wide net but they are not indiscriminate, and following a necessary background check, applicants will be notified if they're to join the academy or if they'll have to wait a bit longer for their turn.
If this piques your interest and you're keen to become part of the Citizens Academy, ready yourself to commit to the full duration of the program—missing out on a part means missing out on the whole, so clear your Tuesday evenings and prepare for a deep dive into the Buckeye PD's day-to-day operations. To throw your hat into the ring, simply complete the online application, and if hitches or hiccups in the process arise, Police Community Programs Coordinator Don McWilliams has got answers, just shoot an email his way at [email protected].
