The Oak Park Police Department has launched its first-ever Citizen Police Academy, a five-session program giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at how the department operates.
The academy began Wednesday, Oct. 14, and has already completed two weeks of sessions, according to the village's weekly report for the week ending Oct. 23. Participants have gained insight into patrol operations, police equipment and the day-to-day responsibilities of officers, the report stated.
Sessions run Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. through Nov. 18 at Village Hall, 123 Madison St. No class will be held Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
According to the department's program page, the academy features classes and interactive discussions on protocols and issues in policing. Topics include patrol operations, mental health response, investigations and evidence collection, crime analysis, community policing and department structure.
Enrollment was limited. Applicants had to be at least 18 years old and live or work in Oak Park. The application deadline was Oct. 9.
The Oak Park Police Department (OPPD) posted on social media Oct. 24 calling the launch historic for the agency. During the opening week, participants met department leadership, the department said.
The number of residents enrolled in the inaugural class has not been disclosed.
The academy launch coincides with another community outreach effort by OPPD. Police Chief Shatonya Johnson held a "Coffee with the Chief" event at Whirlwind Coffee Shop during the week ending Oct. 23, connecting with residents in a casual setting, according to the village weekly report. The village has not yet announced future Coffee with the Chief dates.
Three sessions remain on the academy schedule, wrapping up Nov. 18.
