The first Citizens' Police Academy (CPA) was conducted in September of 1996, with 20 students. The Academy’s purpose is to educate the citizens of the Town of Cheektowaga in the operations and procedures of their police department. It gives residents the opportunity to learn more about the department's specialized units and their individual officers; thus establishing a better understanding and a stronger relationship between the department and the community.

The CPA is open to any person 21 years of age or older who either resides or is employed in Cheektowaga. Candidates must file an application and undergo a criminal history check. The CPA runs twelve weeks and covers a variety of topics which include:

• History of the department

• Training and hiring procedures

• Domestic violence

• Sex offenses

• Introduction to specialty units such as homicide investigation

• Opportunity to fire service weapons on the range

• Ride-along with officers

• Hands-on defense tactics

The CPA culminates with a graduation ceremony and reception for the attendees and their family members. Each student receives a diploma, class pin, and class picture.

After graduation from the CPA, the students are eligible to participate in the Graduate Citizens’ Police Academy. The GCPA is a more detailed behind the scene look into the operation of the Police Department.

For more information call the Crime Resistance Unit at 897-7293