What is the Citizen Police Academy?

The Farmers Branch Police Department Citizen Police Academy is a 33-hour block of instruction designed to give the public a working knowledge of the Police Department's personnel and policies. It consists of a series of classes held once each week for three hours. The instruction is comprehensive, covering a different area of the Police Department each week. Officers, supervisors and personnel assigned to that particular division conduct each instructional block.

Who can attend?

The class is made up of a cross section of the Farmers Branch community. Doctors, architects, homemakers, laborers, students, secretaries, salespersons and others are encouraged to apply for admission. The Academy is held at least once a year. The minimum age for enrollment is 18 years of age and you must live or work in the City of Farmers Branch to be eligible to attend.

What is the purpose of the Citizen Police Academy?

The Farmers Branch Citizen Police Academy was created in order to provide information to the citizens that attend so that they may make informed judgments about the Police Department and police activity. It is further hoped that the instruction will increase police awareness and dispel suspicions and misconceptions and to increase police community rapport through this educational process. The department, in turn, becomes more aware of the feelings and concerns of the community from the participant's interaction and input.

What topics are covered?

The Farmers Branch Citizen Police Academy covers such diverse topics as training, communications, criminal investigations, crime scene search, crime prevention, programs for children, gangs and many additional topics. Instructions on these and other topics will consist of lectures, demonstrations, tours and hands-on experience.

How much does the program cost?

This is a community service program of the Farmers Branch Police Department. There is no charge or cost related to this program.

How do I join?

Forward questions to Officer S. Rutherford by email or call 972.919.9135 for more information, or just complete the online application.