The Chattanooga Community Police Academy (CPA) recently began its latest session with the largest class it has seen in decades, according to police officials. The academy, which started in 1999, aims to foster positive relationships and open communication between the Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) and the community it serves.
The program is a nine-week Law Enforcement Education course that offers participants an in-depth look at police work and the criminal justice system. Students meet once a week from 6-8 p.m. at the Police Services Center on 3410 Amnicola Highway. During the course, community members learn from various CPD specialized units and engage in interactive activities and shared dialogue with officers.
While the academy provides extensive instruction and training on police-related subjects, it is important to note that graduates are not authorized or expected to perform any police services.
The CPA has a strong reputation within the community, with positive comments and referrals from alumni driving interest in the initiative. Upon completion, participants are honored with a graduation ceremony and receive a Community Police Academy certificate.
For those interested, the next opportunity to apply for the Community Police Academy will be available early next year. More information about the CPA can be found on the CPD’s website, chattanooga.gov/services/police/community-outreach/community-police-academy. Applications can be submitted by email to cpdcommunityoutreach@chattanooga.gov or mailed to the Chattanooga Police Department at 3410 Amnicola Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37406.