The Chattanooga Citizen's Police Academy is a nine-week law enforcement education program. The purpose of the academy is to create positive interaction and enhance communication between the CPD and the citizens it serves, officials said.A graduation ceremony is held at the conclusion of each nine-week academy.
This academy's graduation ceremony for 16 graduates will be held on Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. at Police Services Center, 3410 Amnicola Hwy.
In 1999, the Chattanooga Police Department offered its first Citizens Police Academy with 19 people attending. Seventeen years later, more than 700 people have graduated from the CPA.
"The Citizens’ Police Academy offer citizens an in-depth look inside the Chattanooga Police Department and how it works. Class participants are taught by police officers who cover topics such as Use of Force, SWAT and EOD, Patrol, Narcotics and Special Investigations, just to name a few, officials said.