LUPD offers Citizens' Police Academy
Lamar University’s Police Department is offering a Citizens’ Police Academy to help participants learn about the police profession and criminal justice system.
The Citizens’ Police Academy begins with an orientation Feb. 24, noon to 1 p.m. The orientation will be offered again Feb. 26, 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.
The program is a series of classes designed to provide students, faculty, staff, and alumni insight into the workings of the Lamar University Police Department. A new topic will be covered twice each week, once on Tuesdays (noon to 1 p.m.) and again on Thursdays (5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.). Participants may attend either session.
“My goal is for the participants to feel a sense of ownership for the program, increase their knowledge on personal safety, and let them know that LUPD is here for them,” said LUPD interim chief Hector Flores.
The plan is to offer the Citizens’ Police Academy each Spring and Fall semester, Flores said.
Supervisors, police officers, and specialized personnel will provide classroom instruction in a relaxed and interactive environment, Flores said. Classes are comprehensive, covering topics relating to criminal investigations, alcohol and drug laws, patrol tactical procedures, personal safety, and our community oriented policing philosophy. Instruction will consist of presentations, demonstrations, hands-on scenarios and discussions.
“We hope all participants will enjoy their time with us and we will encourage questions during each class,” Flores said.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, and must be affiliated with Lamar University.
There are no fees associated with this program. Completion of the CPA does not license or certify the participant in any way to perform police duties or security functions.
To register for the CPA or have further questions, please contact Corporal Monica Ryan at (409) 880-8307 or mryan@lamar.edu. CPA information and registration forms can be found on the Lamar University Police’s Facebook page.
