Citizen Police Academy

Due to lack of interest, we have canceled our Citizens Police Academy for the fall.  We are hoping to reschedule in the spring of 2022.  We will post details and a new application when dates and times are set.  Please check back in early spring.  Below is information about the academy.

The classes are intended to provide an overview of law enforcement; it is an educational and informational program.  Community members will learn about the issues that affect law enforcement efforts in New Paltz and Ulster County and how to develop a partnership with law enforcement. Participants will have a unique “hands-on” opportunity in a variety of law enforcement tasks and responsibilities.

Goals

• Enhance police/community engagement
• Provide greater transparency in NPPD operations
• Create a better understanding and communication between the citizens and police through education.
• Develop a partnership between the citizens and police to establish a safer community.

Benefits

When community members take a more personal interest in the protection of their community and neighborhoods, they will enjoy a safer and closer relationship with their neighbors. Upon completion of the course, graduates receive a diploma and a class photo.

Why?

One of the recommendations of the New Paltz Reform and Reinvention Committee was greater community outreach and engagement.  Community Oriented Policing plays an important and vital role in creating a safer community. Therefore, the New Paltz Police Department has initiated a Community Police Academy to improve communication and obtain input and support from our community.  It is our hope that the graduates will become partners with us in identifying problems and solutions to the crime issues that are affecting our community. Graduates will take their knowledge back into their neighborhoods where they can use it to enhance the quality of neighborhood life.

Who Can Attend?

Individuals who apply for the Community Police Academy must be at least 18 years of age. They must also live, work, or own property in the Town of Village of New Paltz.  Will open to Ulster County residents if slots do not fill-up.

Curriculum Summary

• Law Enforcement overview
• Patrol Procedures
• Criminal Investigations, including elements of offenses
• Juvenile Investigation
• Mental Health Training
• Ulster County Criminal Justice System Overview
• Reality Based Training
• Opioid Overdose Education, Prevention and Outreach Overview, including Narcan and Rescue Breathing Training
• "Meet the Chiefs" - discussion with Ulster County Law Enforcement Leaders

Those interested in participating can email questions to citizensacademy@newpaltzny.org.