Citizens Police Academy In West Hartford Seeks Participants

WEST HARTFORD, CT — With properly staffing police department a constant priority for many municipalities, West Hartford is hoping a special civilian program could help toward that end.

The West Hartford Police Department announced Thursday it is accepting applications for its "Behind the Badge" citizens police academy program.

Classes start on Wednesday, Sept. 27,and continue every Wednesday until Nov. 15, according to the WHPD.

The free program runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at WHPD headquarters, 103 Raymond Road, West Hartford.
"The program is specifically designed to introduce the community to the reality of a career in law enforcement," wrote the WHPD. "Anyone over the age of 21 can apply and candidates will submit to a background check."

Each class topic will focus on various elements of police work, such as communications, patrol procedures and crime scene investigation.

In addition, participants will go on a four-hour ride-along with an officer for a behind-the-scenes look at a law enforcement job.

"Our goal is to allow our citizens, through education, to become more informed of what our department has to offer," wrote the WHPD.

To sign up for the program or to get more information, click on this link.