Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live a day in the life of a law enforcement officer? From the discourse on the daily news to the sensationalized depictions of police that we see on late-night crime shows, it’s safe to say we’re constantly faced with a number of perspectives and portrayals of what the role of police is in our communities. While there can be a disconnect between police and the communities they serve, by setting aside differences and walking a mile in one another’s shoes, we can begin to bridge the gap and initiate a dialogue which can dismantle the divisions that plague us. In the spirit of community and connection, the Trenton Police Department is once again back with another exciting installment of the TPD Citizen’s Academy.

The Trenton Police Department is pleased to announce the return of the TPD Citizen’s Academy, a one of a kind opportunity for residents of Trenton to enjoy hands-on training and education in the daily duties of policing. This free, 10-week session will begin on Monday, September 9th and will continue to meet on Monday throughout the duration of the program. Sessions will take place from 6pm to 9pm at the Trenton Police Department Headquarters, located at 225 N. Clinton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08609. Please note that participants enrolled in the course must complete at least 90% of the sessions in order to graduate.

In order to enroll, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

• Be at least 21 years or older
• Be a resident of the City of Trenton
• Have not been convicted of a crime within the last five (5) years

As a member of the Citizen’s Academy, you will be able to enjoy hands-on education in a number of fascinating subject areas. In previous installments of the academy, students have had the opportunity to try their hand at a number of exhilarating exercises, including special operations, crime scene investigation, use of force, patrolling, and more. If you are interested in getting started and would like to complete an application, please email communityaffairs@trentonpolice.net for further details.

At a time when tensions between communities and the police that serve them are higher than ever, opportunities like the TPD Citizen’s Academy allow the city’s residents and police to come together and find some common ground in an open, inviting environment. By building trust and opening the lines of communication, the Trenton Police Department can be even better-equipped to support our community and show up in times of crisis. Community-building efforts are the beginning of a brighter future ahead, and initiatives such as these play a crucial part in building a more harmonious home for us all.

If you have any questions or would like any help getting started, please contact the Trenton Police Department’s Dept. of Community Affairs at communityaffairs@trentonpolice.net for further assistance. The upcoming academy is the perfect place to get to know your local police, so be sure to take advantage of this one of a kind opportunity.

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