Murrieta Police Complete First 'Citizen's Academy,' Recruiting New Participants

The following is a news release from the Murrieta Police Department:

The Murrieta Police Department is proud to have completed our first Citizens’ Police Academy. The 10 week Citizens’ Police Academy is designed to increase public awareness and understanding of the Police Department’s operations. Citizen students will be taught by an expert panel of department personnel in the topic of patrol tactics, criminal investigations, S.W.A.T., police canines, narcotics, crime free multi-housing, neighborhood watch, dispatch, traffic enforcement, use of force and other many other related fields. Students will ideally participate in practical demonstrations, simulations, and attend a ride-along with a patrol officer during the academy.

The second session of the Citizens’ Police Academy is currently in progress with the class consisting of Police Volunteers and City Employees.

In January 2015, it will be opened to all applicants who are citizens of Murrieta who have successfully passed a background check basic interview process.

The objective of the Citizens’ Police Academy is that students will gain an overall knowledge of the Murrieta Police Department, its organizational structure and how it continues to provide nationally recognized service to the community. Even though the subject matter is similar to that of a traditional police academy, the purpose of the Citizens’ Academy is strictly for public education and to enhance and foster a strong relationship with the community. All citizens over the age of 21, who are in good physical condition to sit in a classroom setting, participate in simulation exercises, and reenact tactical scenarios, are encouraged to apply.

Prospective participants for the Citizens’ Police Academy must meet the following criteria:

• Live or Work in the City of Murrieta
• Be a minimum age of 21 years
• Have No felony convictions, outstanding warrants, or pending criminal cases
• Successfully complete a background check and interview process

For further information please contact Corporal Matt Mozingo 951-304-COPS ext. 6856 ormmozingo@murrieta.org