Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Citizens police academy fosters understanding
BELLA VISTA — Bella Vista residents are being given the chance to sign up for the police department’s citizens police academy once again, and Jean Galloway of Bella Vista shared her thoughts on taking the class in the fall of 2022.
“I think it provides an opportunity for community members to interact with law enforcement in a proactive and educational manner, and it fosters better understanding and cooperation between the two,” she said. “I think it allows citizens to gain insight into the daily operations, procedures and challenges faced by our law enforcement. I think it can contribute to building a stronger, more informed and collaborative relationship between the police and the citizens they serve, ultimately fostering a safer and more cohesive community.”
The 10-week educational program allows participants a glimpse inside daily operations of the department.
Galloway said she appreciated the opportunity to meet and converse with police officers and other law enforcement professionals and to understand their perspectives.
In the class, she and her peers shared experiences such as working a mock crime scene and going on ride-alongs.
“The ride-alongs are incredible, because for four hours you get to ride in a squad car during a police shift,” she said.
She added, “From a networking perspective, one thing I loved was to meet other community members with similar interests in public safety and well being.”
Galloway said she was most impressed by all the technology and tools the police department has.
“The equipment they have at their fingertips to keep our city safe — the officers are highly trained in using this technology. No matter the circumstances, they have a plan in place. It’s so reassuring,” she said.
Furthermore, Galloway said, “You gain insight into the criminal justice system and the tactics they use as well as the legal and ethical considerations of policing.”
She said the police department is a “well-run, highly oiled machine.”
“Chief Graves is doing a great job making sure we are diligent in using our funds to gain the maximum impact for the community,” she said.
In the class, Galloway also learned practical tips such as self-defense tactics and safety tips.
She recommended the class for anyone who wants to make the community safer and said it is an incredible opportunity.
“It’s very enlightening. It supports the approach of involving citizens and a shared approach in public safety,” Galloway said. “It shows you they’re very interested in a collaboration between law enforcement and community members.”
The citizens police academy spring 2024 session will start Feb. 27. Applications are now being accepted, with a deadline of Feb. 6.
For more information or to apply, visit the department’s website at https://bellavistaar.gov/bvpd, email Cpl. Haley Lyons at hlyons@bellavistaar.gov, or call (479) 855-3771.