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he Citizens Police Academy at the Naples Police The Citizens Police Academy is offered free of charge, making
Department offers a unique and engaging opportunity for it accessible to those interested in learning more about their
T residents and business owners to step behind the scenes local police department. Enrollment is limited, and registration
and gain a deeper understanding of local is available on a first-come, first-served
law enforcement. This interactive program basis, with priority given to City of Naples
is designed to build stronger connections residents and business owners. Applications
between the community and the men will be reviewed in the order they are
and women who serve it, while providing received, and selected participants will be
valuable insight into the day-to-day notified in November. Applicants must be
operations of the department. at least 18 years of age to participate.
Participants in the Citizens Police Due to the limited class size and
Academy will experience a hands-on, the interactive nature of the program,
informative curriculum that goes far beyond applicants are asked to commit to attending
a traditional classroom setting. The program all scheduled sessions. Additionally, because
introduces attendees to a wide range of some topics involve sensitive information,
topics, including scenario-based training all applicants will undergo a criminal
exercises, traffic enforcement, criminal law, background check to determine eligibility.
vehicle operations, police communications This information is used solely for the
and dispatch, and forensic investigations. One of the highlights purpose of program participation and is not shared. Participants
for many participants is the chance to get behind the wheel of a are also required to submit fingerprints and complete an online
police vehicle during a controlled driving exercise - an exciting and Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) training course prior to
memorable experience that offers a new perspective on the skills the start of the academy.
required of officers. The Citizens Police Academy is more than just a learning
In addition to in-class instruction, qualified participants may experience - it is an opportunity to build relationships, ask questions,
take part in patrol and marine ride-alongs, providing a real-world and gain a deeper appreciation for the work being done to serve and
glimpse into the responsibilities and challenges officers face while protect the Naples community.
on duty. These experiences help foster a greater appreciation for the Applications will open in May and must be submitted online
complexity of policing and the commitment required to keep the through the Naples Police Department website:
community safe. https://www.naplesgov.com/police/page/citizens-police-academy.
The academy typically meets on Thursday evenings from 6:00pm If you have any questions or issues with the application link,
to 9:00pm in the Naples Police Department training room. While please contact Program Coordinator, Corporal Jeffrey Perry
most sessions are held at this location, some classes - such as driving (jperry@naplesgov.com), or Co-Coordinator,
exercises, firearms instruction or demonstrations, and building Chief of Staff Jennifer Tate (jtate@naplesgov.com).
search training - will take place off-site and may be scheduled
on different days. Participants will receive a full schedule upon
acceptance into the program.

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