The Greenwich Police Department is accepting applications for its free, nine-week Citizens' Police Academy starting Tuesday, Sept. 22, with up to 40 spots awarded by lottery.
The program, announced on the town's website on Tuesday, Aug. 18, gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at local policing. Classes meet Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Greenwich Police Department, with one additional Thursday session on Oct. 15. Graduation is set for Tuesday, Nov. 17.
The curriculum spans 10 topics: crime scene forensics, criminal investigations, domestic violence investigations, narcotics, motor vehicle stops and DUI enforcement, use of force and de-escalation, scams and fraud prevention, 911 awareness, crime prevention and an introduction to policing.
Beyond the classroom, participants ride along with on-duty patrol officers and the Marine Division during sessions scheduled outside regular class hours. Time permitting, recruits get a demonstration at the police firing range with mock scenarios.
Who can apply
Applicants must be at least 18 and either live in Greenwich, work for the Town of Greenwich or work within town limits. The department asks that participants commit to the full nine-week schedule.
Because demand has grown steadily since the program launched in 2003, qualified applicants are selected by lottery. No application deadline has been publicly posted.
The academy comes as the department, led by Chief Jim Heavey, marks its 130th anniversary in 2026.
Programs coordinator Julia Blight is the point of contact for questions at [email protected].
