The City of Lawrence, Indiana, is offering its residents a unique opportunity to gain insight into the workings of the local police department through the 2026 LPD Citizens Academy Program. The program, announced in a social media post by the city government, invites interested individuals aged 21 and over to apply for an 11-week course that provides a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes view of law enforcement.
Applications for the program are set to quickly open on January 9 and will remain available until February 13. Hoping to build a stronger bond between the police force and the community it serves, the Citizens Academy is slated to hold its classes each Thursday from 6–9 PM, starting March 5, at 5150 N. Post Rd. The academy is educational in nature, and seeks to foster partnership rather than equip civilians with law enforcement authority.
Weekly sessions will feature hands-on learning experiences, classroom instruction, and the opportunity for participants to ride-along with an LPD officer. These immersive activities are designed to give attendees a realistic view of the daily challenges and responsibilities faced by police officers. The curriculum is expected to cover various aspects of police operations, from criminal investigations to traffic patrol and community policing strategies, as mentioned on the city's Facebook page.
Those interested in delving into the realities of police work are encouraged to download the application through the official city website. All applications must be submitted before the closing date to be considered for the program.
