Citizen Programs

Citizens Police Academy


The Citizen Police Academy (CPA) is a six-week program designed to provide a working knowledge and background of the O’Fallon Police Department, and to foster a closer relationship between the police and the community. The Academy provides an avenue for community involvement and provides first hand experience of policing.


The CPA was created to develop a harmonious working relationship between members of the community and law enforcement. It is an opportunity for citizens to learn more about their local law enforcement, ask questions, and gain a more thorough understanding of the inner workings of the O’Fallon Police Department.


The Academy is also a means for participants and police personnel to share information and ideas about the police profession. The Academy also provides for improved community/police relationships, enhanced cooperation, and reduced stereotyping.


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Topics and courses

Some of the topics and activities Academy attendees will participate in include:

  • Patrol operations including riding assignments with an O’Fallon Police Officer
  • Overview of investigations (criminal, traffic, DWI, crime scene)
  • Drug awareness, local drug task force
  • Use of force, taser, less lethal weapons
  • Internet safety, identity theft awareness
  • Tours of the O’Fallon Police Department
  • Police K-9 program
  • Overview of Community Service division
  • Day at the O’Fallon firearms range (Saturday) demonstration/hands on
  • Metro West SWAT Team

Eligibility

People from all walks of life are eligible to attend the Academy, including concerned citizens, Neighborhood Association members, Civic Organization members, college students, potential police, factory workers, independent business people, city and county workers, Neighborhood Watch members, and many others.


Requirements

  • Persons interested in attending a Citizen Police Academy must live, work or attend school within St. Charles County
  • Persons must be at least 18 years of age, have no prior felony convictions and no outstanding warrants
  • Applicants must provide two personal references
  • Past participants are allowed to attend future classes; however, preference will be given to first time participants if the class exceeds 24 participants

Program dates/details

There is one Academy held per year and it starts in March of each year - there is a $30.00 fee to attend. Classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The day at the firing range will be held on a Saturday morning to be determined. The weekday classes are conducted from 6:45 - 9:45 P.M. for six weeks. The Citizen Police Academy is held at the O’Fallon Police Department, 100 North Main Street, O’Fallon, MO.


Why attend the CPA?

CPA graduates typically return to their communities as better-informed citizens, capable of using their newly acquired information to help improve the conditions and quality of life in their community.


While the O’Fallon Police Department does not currently have a CPA alumni association in place, we do have a close connection with the volunteer services division run by the City of O’Fallon. Various volunteer opportunities are available to CPA graduates through this group. CPA graduates can specifically register to assist with police-related events when help is needed.


Application

You may download an application below or e-mail Officer Jeff Cook at jcook@ofallon.mo.us for more information or to request an application by mail.

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