On Tuesday, April 17, 2018, the Westfield Police Department graduated the 17th Citizen Police Academy Class. Over a twelve week period, 19 Westfield residents participated in classroom and hands on training which allowed them a look inside what a Westfield Police Officer does on a daily basis.
Topics that were covered during the academy were a history of the Westfield Police, criminal law and the justice system, financial crime and fraud, patrol procedures, drug identification and crime scene investigation, defensive tactics and use of force, school resource officer programs, dispatch functions, child abuse and domestic violence, firearm safety and live fire exercises, the court system, probation and parole, community policing, and traffic and commercial truck enforcement. These topics were taught by patrolmen, detectives, sergeants, lieutenants, district court employees, members of probation, and civilian dispatchers.
The class offers an opportunity for citizens to take a look at not only what police officers do, but why they do things. We look at the thought and decision making process that takes place before officers act. It gives the officers involved the chance to explain their profession and answer questions in an non-confrontational atmosphere that encourages respect and understanding for both civilians and officers.
Not only is the academy educational, but without fail the class always results in a great time with participants and instructors thoroughly enjoying the experience. The 17th Citizen Police Academy was no exception. Thank you to all the “recruits” who spent 12 Tuesday evenings at the police department learning about our profession, and congratulations on your graduation!