What is it?
The Civilian Police Academy (CPA) is an award winning educational program which invites Suffolk County residents to their police academy for specialized training for the purpose of bringing the Police Department and the community closer together. It opens up lines of communication and builds trust between the police and the community. The CPA dispels misconceptions as to how the Police Department operates and lets the public have a better understanding of what their police can and cannot do. Hear PO Mitch Savino talk about the Academy here.
How long is it?
The CPA is a total of 48 hours long. There are 16 sessions, one session per week. Each class is three hours long, starting at 6:30 pm and ending at 9:30 pm.
What will be taught?
Classes are held on various topics, including Laws of Arrest, Search and Seizure, Use of Force, Traffic Enforcement, Domestic Violence, Narcotics and Homicide Investigations, K-9 Unit, Bias Crimes, as well as other topics. Additionally, students have the option of riding along with Police Officers from their local precinct for a tour of duty and/or attending a demonstration at the Emergency Vehicle Obstacle Course (EVOC) and Police Firearms Range.
Who can apply?
Any resident of Suffolk County (21 years or older). Preference is given to people in active leadership positions in their communities (members of civic, community, business, neighborhood watch or tax payers associations, elected leaders, school officials, etc.).
What does it cost?
There is no fee or charge of any kind.
How do you apply?
The application is below, for your convenience:
