The New Rochelle Police Department recently graduated a class of the department's Citizen Police Academy. The Citizen Police Academy was designed to strengthen the partnership between the New Rochelle Police Department and the community it serves. 

Participants were introduced to the field of law enforcement and the criminal justice system through a variety of instructors representing every facet of the New Rochelle Police Department. These ranged from the police commissioner and division commanders to the detectives and police officers who ensure the safety of our community. 

During the nine-week course, this was achieved through classroom lectures, hands-on demonstrations, scenario-based training, ride-a-longs with patrol officers, and a Harbor Unit tour. The class was immersed in all aspects of policing and received an unabashed view of what police officers are responsible for doing, how they are trained to handle situations and the reasons for their actions. Through many candid conversations throughout the course, the participants now graduate with a better understanding of police work in general, as well as with a greater level of insight of the New Rochelle Police Department and the challenges, intricacies, goals, and limitations of police work.  

Congratulations to all of the graduates!