The Southfield Police Department is now accepting applications for the Citizens Police Academy. Citizens Police Academy sessions will take place every Tuesday from 6-8:30 p.m. beginning April 16 until June 25 at the Southfield Police Department Headquarters, 26000 Evergreen Road. Applications will be accepted until March 15. 

The Citizen’s Police Academy is an 11-week program that offers a first-hand approach that gives participants insight into how police officers perform their duties and serve the community. The Academy will include presentations on criminal investigations, evidence technicians, drone operators, the swat team, firearm safety, defense tactics, community policing, use of force, traffic stops and the hiring process. The program will also include a tour of the police station and the 46th District Court, a K9 demonstration and much more. 

The program allows residents to get to know and build a bond with the men and women of the Southfield Police Department. Taught by Southfield Police Officers, the Citizen’s Police Academy will bring a better understanding of what police do on a day-to-day basis, while fostering communication and cooperation within the community. 
Graduates of the Citizen’s Police Academy will be invited to join the Chiefs Advisory Board, which meets monthly and goes over various topics with the chief of police.  

Applications may be picked up at the Southfield Police Department front desk located in the Southfield Municipal Campus.  Anybody may apply for the Citizens Police Academy; however, residents of the city of Southfield will be given priority.  All applicants are subject to a background investigation.  The academy will be limited to 25 participants and there is no cost to participate. Applicants must have their own transportation to make it to the scheduled training days. There are no physical requirements or age requirements. Acceptance criteria is based on a background investigation and answers to the application questions, and will be determined on a case by case basis by Police Chief Elvin Barren.  Accepted participants will receive a Southfield Citizens Police Academy shirt and hat to wear as a uniform, provided by the Department.