Wallingford Resident Completes Citizen’s Police Academy At ECSU

WALLINGFORD, CT — Eastern Connecticut State University students and staff recently expanded their law enforcement knowledge through an extensive program offered by the Willimantic Police Department. Eight students, in addition to Christopher Ambrosio, interim director of the Office of Student Conduct, completed the Willimantic Police Department’s Citizen's Police Academy this past November.

Wallingford’s Christopher Ames, Class of '21, who majors in Sport and Leisure Management, was one of the student participants.

The nine-week course covered a variety of topics centered on police officer training. Each week focused on a different component, including traffic stops, the use of force, drug searches and more. Those in the program were able to assess mock crime scenes and practice firing non-lethal weapons. Three-hour classes were facilitated by officers each week.

"It was a pleasure having Eastern students in the class each week," WPD Detective Lt. Douglas Glode said. "Most were interested in a career in law enforcement, and I hope this influenced them in some way. I think the class opened their eyes to the inner workings of a police department, which, for the most part, not many citizens get to see."

Ambrosio said, “Since the Office of Student Conduct works closely with law enforcement, the Citizen's Police Academy was a great opportunity to see how they examine critical incidents that may involve our students.”

"This is such a wonderful accomplishment," Eastern President Elsa Nunez said. "It really binds Eastern to the law enforcement community in a positive way. These efforts show initiative and motivation."

Contributed article and photo from Eastern Connecticut State University