Citizens Police Academy

The Citizens Police Academy is conducted by the Public Relations Unit of the Hot Springs Police Department. It is a free course designed to familiarize citizens with various aspects of community law enforcement. The Academy focuses on administrative philosophy, internal policies and guiding principles of law and ethical conduct governing the delivery of police services in our community.

The Academy's team of instructors is made up of actual police officers and other specialized law enforcement personnel who provide in-depth discussions and demonstrations about their individual areas of expertise. The Academy curriculum retains all of the core elements essential for citizens to gain a better understanding of police operations. As a result of their participation citizens are able to make more informed judgments about their police department and its daily operations. The police department also benefits from the Academy because it allow us to gain a better understanding of the views and concerns of our community. Our goal is to foster lasting relationships with members of our community and to create real partnerships with them that will enable us to work side-by-side on future projects to achieve mutual goals.

Our hope is to be recognized as Arkansas' leading Citizen Police Academy offering knowledgeable speakers, interesting demonstrations and unique hands-on experiences that are rarely available to the average citizen. During our academy students are eligible to participate in a ride-along experience where they can go "on patrol" with an actual officer for a rare “behind-the-scenes” look at real-life police work. In addition they are invited to experience first-hand the legendary "Shoot, or Don't Shoot" virtual firearms simulation system.

Upon completion students will be awarded a certificate of completion and exceptional graduates will receive special public recognition at our graduation banquet. As an academy graduate we will continue to network with one another well beyond your time in our classroom and we encourage your opinions, input and suggestions about local issues and our service to our citizens. As future opportunities arise we will offer our pool of committed, well-informed Citizens Police Academy graduates special volunteer appointments where they can continue to show their commitment through community service.

Class size is limited to 20 students per class and registration is on a first come, first served basis. If you have additional questions you may contact one of the Public Information Officers shown on the right side of this page.

Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must…

• be at least 18 years of age

• live or work in Garland County, AR

• have no prior felony arrests

• have had no serious misdemeanor arrests in the last 2 years.

Note: There are no minimum physical requirements to participate in the Citizens Police Academy. Students will not be required to take part in any activities that they are physically unable to perform. If you have a disability that requires special accommodation please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.

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Due to Covid-19, our 2021 Adult Citizens Police Academy Class is on hold.

Further information will be provided regarding future scheduling
and acceptance of applications.

Citizens Police Academy

Due to Covid-19, our 2021 Adult Citizens Police Academy Class is on hold.