Sebastian Police

What is it?
The Citizens Police Academy is a twelve (12) week program designed to provide a working knowledge and background of the Sebastian Police Department. This program is intended to foster a closer relationship between our agency and the community. It provides an avenue for community involvement and provides first hand experience of policing.

Purpose
The Citizens Police Academy is intended to develop a harmonious working relationship between members of the community and law enforcement while at the same time opening a mutually supportive avenue for communication. 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 Sebastian 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.

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

	ØWelcome to Sebastian Citizens Police Academy by Chief of Police
	ØDepartmental Organizational and Philosophy
	ØCommunity Policing and Problem Solving
	ØFacility Tour of Police Headquarters
	ØProfessional Standards and Accreditation
	ØPolice Officer Recruitment, Selection, and Training
	ØCriminal Law and Laws of Arrest
	ØCourt System and Hearing Process
	ØRoad Patrol Division Operations
	ØTraffic Enforcement, Traffic Laws, Child Passenger Laws, Accident Reconstruction, and DUI Enforcement
	ØSchool Resource, D.A.R.E., GREAT, and RAD Kids Programs
	ØCrime Prevention Techniques
	ØCriminal Investigations and Drug Enforcement
	ØCrime Scene Investigations and Evidence Processing
	ØRecords Management
	ØCommunications Division
	ØMobile Data Terminal Operations
	ØUse of Force, Defensive Tactics, and K-9 Demonstration
	ØTerrorism Awareness and Weapons of Mass Destruction
	ØTour of Indian River County Jail Facility
	ØTour of Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division
	ØR.U.O.K, Community Volunteer Program, CompuKids, and special programs
	ØHouse Checks and Alarm Permits
	ØMarine Patrol and Fish and Game
	ØFirearms Care and Safety
	ØSpecial Response Team (SRT) Presentation and Demonstration
	ØCitizens Police Academy Graduation

Who should attend the Citizens Police Academy?
Citizens residing in Indian River County, Members of service organizations, members of business associations, members of the media, college students, potential law enforcement applicants, and other interested parties.

What are the requirements to attend the Citizens Police Academy?
Persons must be at least 19 years of age, and meet all requirements set forth on the application for the Sebastian Citizens Police Academy. Final approval of applicants will be made by the Chief of Police or his designee.

When is the Citizens Police Academy held?
Twelve consecutive weeks beginning on Thursday, January 11, 2007 through Thursday, March 29, 2007. Class sessions are scheduled to begin promptly at 6:30 each evening and will be two to three hours in duration depending on course topic.

Where is the Citizens Police Academy held?
The Citizens Police Academy is held at the Sebastian Police Department Headquarters, at 1201 Main Street, Sebastian, Florida and other selected locations

Why should I attend the Citizens Police Academy ?
The academy will help you learn and understand more about the Sebastian Police Department, and become more involved in your community. Everyone who attends the Citizens Police Academy returns to their communities as an informed citizen capable of using their newly acquired knowledge to help improve the conditions and quality of life in their community. Various volunteer opportunities are available to Citizens Police Academy graduates.

How much does the Citizens Police Academy cost?
There is no cost to attend the Citizens Police Academy. Upon completion of the Citizens Police Academy, members will be awarded a “Certificate of Graduation”.

How can I apply to attend a Citizens Police Academy?
We are only able to support 25 persons per class, so make sure you apply using our application, available at the Sebastian Police Department, or contact Community Policing Specialist, Officer Steve Marcinik at 589-5233 extension 8576 to receive an application by mail. If you are not one of the first 25 applicants, we will place you on a standby list for one year from the date your application was received.

Citizen Police Academy Notes, Rules and Regulations

1.	Classes and activities will start promptly at the designated time on the course schedule. Please be on time, and be prepared to participate. If you are unable to attend a class session, please contact Officer Steve Marcinik at 589-5233 extension 8576 at least 24 hrs prior to class. Graduation from the academy will require attendance of a minimum of nine of the eleven class sessions. If a student does not attend the required number of sessions, that student will be dropped to the end of the standby list or may be refused further attendance.
2.	We recommend that casual, comfortable clothing be worn for all classes. Tank tops, bathing suits, and revealing clothing are not allowed. Your attire should be in good taste and represent the proper appearance.
3.	Students will not bring any kind of weapon(s) into the Police Department. This is for the safety and security of students and instructors. During week eleven of the academy, instructors will have gun lock(s) available for your personal firearm(s).
4.	“Participant” security badges will be distributed during the first class. Students will wear their badge at all times while in the Police Department. Badges will be turned in after every class for security reasons. Lost, stolen, or damaged badges must be reported promptly to the instructor for replacement.
5.	Every effort will be made to ensure that there is a short break during the classroom session. Students may, at any time, leave the room to use the restrooms. Bathrooms are located in the hallway.
6.	Students may eat and drink in the classroom, but please leave the classroom the way you found it. Drink machines are located in the break-room.
7.	Students are encouraged to participate in the classroom discussion and offer their perspective on the subjects under discussion. Through participation we all benefit from the ideas and brainstorming.
8.	Evaluations will be conducted throughout the Citizens Police Academy to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the instruction to improve future classes. Please, be honest with your instructors on the evaluations.
9.	Upon completion of the Citizens Police Academy, students will be awarded a “Certificate of Graduation”.

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