Community Police Academy Gives Civilians an Inside Look at the Internal Workings of the Police Department

The Pasadena Police Department has opened the application period for the next English-language Community Police Academy class, which starts on Sept. 15.  

A Spanish-language Community Police Academy class is currently ongoing, the Police Department said. 

Sgt. Timothy Bundy of the Pasadena Police Department said anyone who lives, works or owns property in Pasadena, who’s 18 years old or older, and who has no felony convictions or any misdemeanor convictions within the past year can apply to be part of the Community Police Academy class, which provides community members and civic leaders with an inside look at the internal workings of the Police Department.

“During the CPA, students will be introduced to community policing and how this form of policing can help build partnerships and solve problems that arise in the community,” Bundy said. “Students will be introduced to the PPD Policing philosophy, as well as learn about police dispatch, criminal law and procedures, street crime enforcement, firearms training, and the citizen complaint process.” 

Police professionals, most of whom are veteran officers, and other professionals involved in the administration of justice teach the academy classes. Throughout the 12 weeks, participants have an opportunity to interact with the staff from all levels of the police department. 

Pasadena’s CPA classes have been going on for about 20 years and have helped community members familiarize themselves with their police department, Bundy said. 

“The program strengthens community relations by bringing people together,” he said. “There’s nothing like putting people in the same room to dispel rumors and help find common ground. It provides an opportunity for community members to engage with police personnel from all the different sections and learn about what they do and why they do it.” 

Bundy said the most popular blocks of training within the CPA have been the firearms training at the police range, seeing the police department heliport in operation, K9 presentations, and the training on various police response scenarios. 

To be part of the next English-language CPA, interested community members must apply by Sept. 14. For more information, contact Community Service Officer Sarap Presley at (626) 744-7650, or spresley@cityofpasadena.net.