Ogden's Citizens Police Academy begins in February

The Town of Ogden Police Department offers their Citizens Police Academy on Wednesday evenings at the Ogden Community Center, 269 Ogden Center Road, Spencerport, beginning the end of February 2007. The class will meet for approximately eight weeks and there is no cost to the participants.

The CPA provides the citizens of the Town of Ogden with information about the criminal justice system and with a greater understanding of the policies and procedures of the agencies that make up this system. The ultimate goal of the Citizen Police Academy is the reduction of crime through a stronger citizen commitment to the police department and the community. This is accomplished through a series of classes involving instruction by police officers from the Town of Ogden Police Department, guest speakers from outside criminal justice agencies, as well as off-site field trips.

Police officials say that the more information and understanding shared among the citizens of Ogden and its criminal justice community, the less suspicion, fear, and misunderstanding will exist. Many conflicts arise simply due to a lack of understanding. A cooperative sharing of information and perspective between the citizens and the members of the law enforcement community can only enhance a positive relationship. During classes, the participants are encouraged to ask questions and give feedback concerning the operation of the police agency. Additionally, citizens bring a wealth of knowledge about community and, particularly, the problems in their neighborhoods. In this way, police are able to learn firsthand the concerns of the citizens.

The curriculum will consist of topics that will cover major areas of the criminal justice system with the County of Monroe. These include basic and in-service training, criminal investigations, patrol procedures and special enforcement teams. Other topics will include New York law and legal procedures as they apply both to police officers and to the citizens of this county. Crime prevention tips and crime trends will also be discussed.

Anyone with an interest in understanding how the criminal justice system works in the Town of Ogden and Monroe County is encouraged to attend. This Academy is designed for all citizens of the community.

To sign up or for information call the Ogden Police Department, 352-2131 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

January 28, 2007