The Owensboro Police Department is once again offering the opportunity for local residents to take part in the Citizens Police Academy — a 10-week program designed to give the public an inside look at the department’s operations.
The program is free, and applications are due by August 13. Class size is limited to 25-30 participants. Those interested can visit owensboro.org to download the application and learn more. A background check is required.
Classes begin August 21 and will be held Thursday evenings from 6-9 p.m., with the final session scheduled for October 30. Each week will feature hands-on demonstrations and discussions with various divisions within the department.
“We’ll introduce attendees to all aspects of OPD and our capabilities,” said Public Information Officer Mark Hammonds. “There’s a fingerprinting activity with our Evidence Collection Unit, mock traffic stops with our traffic officers, range time with the Emergency Response Team, and even a session with our polygraph examiner.”
Participants will also hear from detectives, interact with the Hazardous Device Unit, and learn how investigations unfold within the Criminal Investigations Division.
“Last year was my first time being involved, and we had one attendee who is now going through the hiring process, hoping to join our next police academy class,” Hammonds said. “It’s a great opportunity for anyone even remotely interested in law enforcement.”
Hammonds said the program is also beneficial for general community members who want to better understand law enforcement and their role in public safety.
“It’s a way to educate the public on what we do — but it also helps us learn from the community,” Hammonds said. “There’s real value in that mutual understanding.”
