Citizens Police Academy

    The role of police officer has always been of interest to the average citizen.  The television media has capitalized upon this curiosity with shows such as “Cops,” and “Real Stories of the Highway Patrol.”  Some police agencies have benefited from the curiosity that citizens have about the police.  The creation of the Deer Park Citizens’ Police Academy has allowed citizens to become more educated about their local police and get a taste of what police work is all about.  Citizens gain an insider’s knowledge of the police agency, enabling them to make informed decisions on issues affecting the police and the community.  The program also helps citizens and police officers receive insight into the views held by each other about policing.      

     Applications are currently being accepted for the FREE 17th Deer Park Citizen’s Police Academy. The Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) is a wonderful free program for our community, increasing understanding and cooperation between the police and citizens through education.  This education, along with the relationship established with members of the Deer Park Police Department, assists in achieving the ultimate goal of the CPA, the reduction of crime through a stronger citizen commitment to the police department and the community.

     The CPA consists of a series of 3 hour weekly blocks of instruction over topics ranging from the organizational structure of the Police Department, to SWAT callouts and demonstrations, including a ride-along with a police officer on patrol, and building searches.  Participants experience an abbreviated look at the training our officers receive in order to become certified Texas Peace Officers, and graduate with a greater respect for the job the officers do as they put their lives on the line to keep our community safe.  The CPA has received rave reviews from the over 200 Citizens that have attended.

    Graduates have the opportunity to join the Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association.  The Alumni Association is a volunteer organization that assists the police department.  Volunteer programs for the Alumni Association are in the works, such as assisting in clearing warrants and starting neighborhood watch programs throughout the city. 

     If you are interested in participating, are 18 years of age or older, live or work in Deer Park and have no criminal history (felonies or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude), come by the Deer Park Police Department, 2911 Center Street or the foyer of City Hall, 710 E. San Augustine and pick up an application. You can also download the application off the City’s web site at www.deerparktx.gov.  Any questions contact Community Liason Sheila Plovanich at the Deer Park Police Department,  (281) 930-2118 or email her at splovanich@deerparktx.org.
Completed applications can be faxed to (281) 478-5717. Please include a photocopy of your driver’s license or state ID card.

Download Application Here