Central Nova News

The Alexandria Police Department (APD) is now accepting applications for the 50th session of the Alexandria Community Police Academy. This academy provides an opportunity for residents to learn about the police department and gain a deeper understanding of its operations.

According to the APD, the academy curriculum covers various aspects of the police department, including administrative philosophy, internal policies, and the guiding principles of law and ethical conduct. Participants will have the chance to engage in a combination of lectures and activities on topics such as patrol operations, gangs, crime prevention, crime scene investigations, criminal investigations, and the Special Operations Team.

The goal of the program is to equip residents with the knowledge to make more informed judgments about the Alexandria Police Department and its daily operations. Additionally, the police department aims to establish an enhanced relationship with the community by gaining a greater understanding of their views and concerns.

The academy will be held on Wednesday evenings at APD headquarters, and it will culminate in a formal graduation. The program is free of charge; however, participants will be asked to volunteer a minimum of 10 hours per year after graduation. These volunteer activities may include assisting with parades, road races, National Night Out, and other community events.

Applicants must meet certain requirements to be eligible for the program. They must be at least 21 years old, live or work in Alexandria, and commit to attending all nine sessions. Additionally, applicants must have no misdemeanor arrests within one year of application and no felony convictions. A criminal history check will be conducted on all applicants. The class size is limited to 25 participants.

To apply for the Alexandria Community Police Academy, interested individuals must submit an application by February 8. For further inquiries about the program, applicants can reach out to the Volunteer Office at Mary.Bruno@alexandriava.gov. Information about other academies offered by the city can be found at www.alexandriava.gov/academies.

For those who prefer communication in a language other than English, the city offers free interpretation and translation services. To access these services, individuals can email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

This is an excellent opportunity for residents of Alexandria to get to know their local police department and gain valuable insights into its operations. By participating in the Alexandria Community Police Academy, individuals can contribute to the betterment of their community and forge a stronger bond between law enforcement and the public.