Civilian Police Academy readies for newest class

Ever wonder what it is like to ride in a patrol car on a police shift or were curious about a Special Response Team or a K-9 unit? For over 20 years, citizens of the town of Davie and Southwest Ranches have enjoyed the opportunity to learn firsthand about the various responsibilities facing police officers on a daily basis.

The 44th Civilian Police Academy will be conducting an 11-week course in the classroom along with field instruction on Sept. 6 through Nov. 22 in theCommunityRoomat the Davie Police Department, 1230 S. Nob Hill Road. The Tuesday night class runs from7 to 10 p.m.

Class size limits range from 25-30 students for the popular class. Thefee is$25. Waiting lists to enroll are usually thenormand it is recommended to call early to reserve a spot. The CPA is open to anyonewholives orworks inDavie or Southwest Ranches. The education is beneficial for an age range from young to old. Attendees are provided pizza and refreshments and receive aT-shirt.

The familiarization of police work is normally limited to what is portrayed on TV or the movie screen. The classes allow a much more comprehensive look at the inner workings of a police department. Topics include Community Policing, Crime Prevention, Police Use of Force, Firearms Familiarization, Criminal Justice System, DUI & Traffic Enforcement, Patrol & Criminal Investigations, Dive Team Team.

For the hundreds of beneficiaries who have enjoyed the twice a year course, there is a strongappreciation and a reinforced respect for the work and sacrifice by the men andwomen in blue uniforms.

Sergeant Mark Leone is one of the public information officers of the Davie Police Department and helps coordinate theCPAprogram. He has witnessed the benefits of the program through the interaction the public has with police officers. Crisis Response