From a press release
The goal of the Suffield Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy is to foster a better relationship between the community and the police department through training. It is envisioned that graduates will gain an understanding of the operation of the Suffield Police Department and develop an awareness and understanding of the various challenges and decisions faced daily by Suffield Police Officers.
Requirements for admission to the academy include:
- Minimum age of 18 years; and
- Must have a vested interest in Suffield:
- A resident of Suffield
- Owner of a Suffield Business
- Involved with the Suffield Community, i.e., working with youth agencies/groups, or working in the Town of Suffield.
- No felony convictions, violent crime convictions or the subject of an order of protection. Because of the sensitive nature of police work, a background investigation is completed on each of the applicants. This investigation includes a criminal history, driver’s license status and a warrant check.
The Citizen’s Police Academy is held on Thursdays, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm, for eight weeks. The first class will take place on March 26, 2026 and go every Thursday until May 14, 2026. During the 8-week program, students are exposed to a variety of police topics including: 1. Criminal, Motor Vehicle and Juvenile Law 2. Traffic Enforcement 3. Domestic Violence Response 4. Crime Scene Investigations 5. Emergency Medical Services 6. Special Police Units 7. Use of Force 8. At the end of the academy, the students are invited to attend a graduation ceremony and photo session. For application, check the police website.