Amarillo Police Department Invites Citizens to Join the Citizen Police Academy

 
The Amarillo Police Department is excited to announce the upcoming session of the Citizen Police Academy, designed to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community. This program provides Amarillo residents with an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of police operations and the challenges faced by officers in their daily duties.
 
Why a Citizen Police Academy?
 
The mission of the Amarillo Police Department is to provide outstanding public service and law enforcement, ensuring Amarillo remains a safe place to live, work, and play. Achieving this mission requires the support and engagement of the community. The Citizen Police Academy is a key initiative in fostering trust, collaboration, and transparency between the police and Amarillo residents.
 
The program aims to:
Educate citizens on police procedures and decision-making processes.
Promote a better understanding of the role and responsibilities of law enforcement.
Strengthen relationships between officers and the community.
Encourage graduates to act as community liaisons and partners in crime prevention efforts.
 
Program Details:
Location: Amarillo Police Department, 5^th Floor Training Space, 200 SE 3rd
Dates: Begins March 4^th and goes for 12 weeks
Times: Tuesday evenings, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, with two Saturday morning sessions
Cost: Free of charge
 
What to Expect:
Participants will gain hands-on experience and insights into various aspects of police work, including:
Departmental structure and division functions
Patrol operations and crime prevention strategies
SWAT and narcotics unit demonstrations
K-9, motorcycle, and dive team demonstrations
Crime scene investigation and evidence processing
Police Academy training and employment opportunities
School Liaison and gang prevention programs
Tours of the Amarillo Emergency Communications Center (AECC) and Property & Evidence division
 
The Citizen Police Academy is a part of the Amarillo Police Department’s commitment to community-oriented policing, reinforcing the importance of public participation in crime prevention and problem-solving efforts. Graduates of the program will take their knowledge back into their communities, enhancing safety and cooperation across Amarillo.
 
The Amarillo Police Department is professionally accredited through the Texas Police Chief’s Association Foundation (TPCAF) Law Enforcement Agency Best Practices Recognition Program.
 
How to Enroll:
Interested citizens are encouraged to apply and become partners in fostering a safer community. For more information or to register, please contact Gail Motley at gail.motley@amarillo.gov, phone 806-378-9462, or email Capt. Louis Sanchez at louis.sanchez@amarillo.gov.