Pre-application process open for fall Citizen’s Police Academy

As part of a continuing program to develop citizen awareness and understanding of the role of law enforcement, the Jackson Police Department has created a police academy course designed for citizens of all backgrounds and occupations. Dubbed as the Citizen’s Police Academy, participants have a chance to have a behind-the-scenes experience with local law enforcement officers.

The JPD announced it is now accepting pre-applications for the upcoming Fall CPA Class. Now is the chance for anyone who has ever been interested in learning more about the Jackson Police Department.

The eight-week/24-hour training program consists of classroom and “hands-on” instruction. Topics covered include the job of the uniformed patrol officer, investigative procedures, tactical operations, laws and legal issues and the use of “drug dogs” in Drug Task Force Operations. Students will participate in many interesting activities such as touring police facilities, using police equipment and collecting evidence and role-play scenarios.

Graduates of this course will not be police officers, but will be better-informed citizens. The graduates will be in a position to relate their experiences to friends and co-workers.

Each applicant must be 21 years of age to attend the class. Each applicant must answer all questions on the application form. 

To graduate, each student must attend six of the eight classes. Therefore, prior to applying, each student must determine whether or not they can attend the minimum number of classes required for graduation. The class meets each Tuesday night from 6- 9 p.m. at the Jackson Police Department.

Eligibility for this program cannot be considered if any of the following apply:

*Felony Conviction

*A or B Misdemeanor Conviction

*Any Drug Conviction

*Domestic Assault Conviction

*Any Active Warrants

Spots are limited and offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications are available online at https://www.jacksontn.gov/.../police/citizen_engagement or picked up at the police department’s front desk.

Applications can be mailed to Officer Curtis Cozart, 234 Institute St., Jackson, TN 38301 or emailed to ccozart@jacksontn.gov

All applicants will be notified by email of the next steps in the application process. Contact Officer Cozart at 731-217-9161 for more information.