Citizens' Police Academy for Youth
The Citizen’s Police Academy for Youth is a one-week program designed to provide Gaston County children, ages 12-15, first hand information about how the Police Department functions.
Academy participation requires a one-week commitment. Our CPA for Youth for 2013 will run July 15-19. Classes meet from 9am to 3pm each day.
Classes will be held at the Gaston County Police Department, 420 W. Franklin Ave. Gastonia, unless otherwise specified.
What subjects are included?
Sessions begin with a presentation of the Police Department’s philosophy regarding Community Oriented Policing. Subsequent sessions include classes on the following topic areas:
-
Communications - Community Policing
- Patrol Procedures
- Juvenile Unit
- Criminal Investigations
- Emergency Response Team
- Teen Court
- Boat Patrol
- Criminal Law
- Recruitment & Selection
- Special Investigations
- Crime Scene Investigations
- Hazardous Devices Unit
- K-9 Unit
- Fatal Vision
Throughout the program, participants are encouraged to ask questions and discuss topics with instructors.
What is the purpose of the Academy?
Our Citizens’ Police Academy for Youth is designed to introduce students to the field of law enforcement and to the criminal justice system.
Who teaches the Academy Sessions?
Gaston County Police officers who are thoroughly versed in their field of expertise lead each session. Each instructor has years of training and experience in the subject are he or she presents.
How are participants selected?
Fourteen students, ages 12 through 15 will be selected for this year’s CPA for Youth based on three (3) letters of recommendation from a teacher, principal, and guidance counselor.
How to apply...
Sessions of the Citizens' Police Academy begin in the spring and fall. Fill out the following application and then either fax to 704-866-3314 or bring in person or mail to:
Gaston County Police Department
420 W. Franklin Blvd.
Gastonia, NC 28052
ATTENTION Sgt. J.D. Hamlin.
Citizens Police Academy for Youth Application
Send or bring the three letters of reference to the Gaston County Police Department located at 420 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC.
You will be notified if you are selected for the next session. There is no fee for the Academy.
For further information contact Sgt. Josh Hamlin at 704-866-3320.