Citizen Police Academy

Objectives

The Elm Grove Citizen Police Academy (CPA) is a community relations program designed for the citizen to do two things: one, to meet the men and women who serve them, and two, to be educated about the how's and why's of law enforcement. The primary objectives of the CPA are:

  • To increase citizen awareness of a police officer’s job responsibilities
  • To improve communications with citizens and create an understanding between Police Department employees and residents of the community
  • To educate citizens of the community who can assist in the dissemination of information to the public concerning operations of the department
  • To allow citizens an opportunity to ask questions about services and express their views or other concerns

The students who participate in this program are very much encouraged to be involved in the instruction by promoting a two-way lectern. We encourage input from citizens.

Topics

The participants are given a realistic view of the department. A wide variety of topics are discussed, including an introduction to the police department, understanding patrol procedures, state statutes and traffic law, the judicial system, court room procedures, officer survival and use of force, criminal investigation, evidence collection, crime prevention, and police officer requirements to mention a few.

Eligibility

Any adult (18 years or older) that is an Elm Grove resident or is employed in Elm Grove may apply to attend the CPA. Applicants must completely fill out an application, have a clear criminal record, and have a minimal driving violation record. Selection of applicants will be made to have a cross-section of citizenry in each class to maximize perspectives, observations, and personal experience. Attendance at 80% of the scheduled sessions is required for graduation. Those applicants not selected will be placed on a list for the next academy.

Signing Up for CPA

The Elm Grove Citizen Police Academy will begin their next session on April 12, 2023. The class meets Wednesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at the Elm Grove Police Department. The course consists of 10 sessions with the final session serving as the graduation. There is one Saturday session during the 10-week period. During the CPA, students participate in a ride-along with an officer and observe the communication center. Many of the class participants continue to maintain contact with the department through active participation with the CPA Alumni Association.

Complete the application (PDF) online and print it off and deliver it to the Elm Grove Police Department, or submit it electronically to cdouglas@elmgrovewi.org    

*Note: to email the document, click on the "Print" button, and choose a document image writer to save an electronic copy. Then simply attach the document to your email message.