Hoffman Estates Citizen Police Academy starting soon

What’s it really like to be a police officer? You’ve seen the TV shows, now live the experience. The Hoffman Estates Police Department is accepting applications for its 24th annual Citizen Police Academy.

There is an orientation meeting from 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, in the police station training room, 411 W. Higgins Road. Classes will then meet for 15 weeks every Wednesday evening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the police station, ending with a graduation on Monday, June 3.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, and reside, attend school or work in Hoffman Estates. Class size is limited, and spots fill up quickly. Applicants living in areas that do not offer a Citizen Police Academy may also be considered.

The Citizen Police Academy will give participants insight into police work and the functions of the department. Students will get hands-on experience with real police equipment, such as squad cars, jail cells and duty gear, including firearms. Students will receive briefings from patrol officers, detectives and guest speakers.

Topics to be discussed include home security, SWAT operations, crime scene investigations (CSI), gangs, club drugs and a K-9 demonstration, among others.

For information and to download an application, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/police and click the “Citizen Police Academy” link, or contact Sgt. Darin Felgenhauer by phone at (847) 781-2866, or by email at darin.felgenhauer@hoffmanestates.org.

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