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What is it?

The Greenfield Police Department is proud to announce the implementation of a Citizen Police Academy. A Citizen Police Academy is a community outreach program designed citizens and offering the opportunity to meet the men and women who serve them, and to learn the “how and why” of law enforcement. The primary objectives of the Citizen Police Academy are:

• To increase citizen awareness of a police officer’s job responsibilities.
• To improve communication with citizens and create an understanding between police department employees and residents of the community.
• To educate citizens of the community who can assist in the dissemination of information to the public concerning operations of the department.

What topics are covered?

Participants will be given a realistic view of the department. A wide variety of topics are discussed, from an introduction to the police department to understanding patrol procedures, state statutes and traffic law, officer survival and use of force, criminal investigation, evidence collection, crime prevention and police officer requirements to mention a few. Lessons are augmented by realistic “hands on” activities.

Who can attend?

Any adult (18 years or older) who is a resident of the City of Greenfield or is employed in the City of Greenfield may apply to attend the Citizen Police Academy. All applicants must have a clear criminal record and a minimal driving violation record. Selection of applicants will be made to ensure a cross-section of citizenry in each class to maximize perspectives, observations, and personal experience. Attendance of 80% of the scheduled sessions is required for graduation.

When and where does the class meet?

The next Greenfield Citizen Police Academy is scheduled to begin Thursday, September 11, 2008 and will conclude on Thursday, November 13, 2008 (no class will be held on Thursday, September 18). The course consists of 9 sessions with the last session serving as a  graduation. The class will meet Thursday evenings from 6:30PM to 9:30PM at the Greenfield Law Enforcement Center. During the Citizen Police Academy students may participate in either a ride-a-long with an officer or sit in and observe the communication/dispatch center.

The current academy class is filled. To submit an application for future classes, please download and complete the application and mail to:

Citizen Police Academy
ATTN: Captain Schlecht
Greenfield Police Department
5300 West Layton Avenue
Greenfield, WI 53220

The department reserves the right to select academy participants to maintain a diverse cohort group. All applicants will not be selected for the Citizen Police Academy. Applicant background, prior police contacts, character and prior criminal conduct will all be considered when determining whether an applicant is suitable for the academy. For answers to specific questions, please contact Captain Paul Schlecht (email) 414-761-5338.