More than 15 years ago, area police chiefs saw a need for transparency to the public to learn what they do, why they do it, and how they do it. So, they formed the Metro Citizens Police Academy. Through this program, participants learn about the legal system and courts, use of force, defensive tactics, tasers, pursuit driving, firearms with range time, community policing, mental health response, officer-involved shooting lectures, internal affairs, and are able to participate in a handful of open discussions.
“We started the MCPA because there is an ongoing need to communicate with the public we serve and be open to conversation and criticism. We wanted the opportunity to meet with the public and explain and demonstrate the training that we receive initially and continuously, to perform our job duties… The discussions are always amazing and unpredictable. Each citizen brings their unique worldview and life experience to the group. Not only do we hopefully teach the citizens something, but inevitably, they teach us something as well.”
“We as law enforcement officers get the opportunity to work in one of the most amazing communities in the country, surrounded by citizens who support us and respect us. This is an opportunity for us to be transparent and let them into our lives to see that we are just humans who really love what we get the chance to do as our career. You do not have to agree with what law enforcement does on a day-to-day basis, but if you are willing to be open-minded and share your perspective so that we can find common ground to assist one another, then MCPA is right for you!”