CITIZENS ACADEMY

In 2008, the Merriam Police Department introduced its first Citizens Police Academy. Since then, the program has benefitted citizens, officers and the department.

The Academy provides citizens a first-hand look at what a police officer does on a daily basis, while police officers get to address law enforcement issues. All classes are designed to emulate the daily responsibilities of a Merriam police officer. Citizens are given the opportunity to participate in as many of the trainings as they feel comfortable.

Training sessions consist of more than just watching videos and listening to lectures. More than half of the time is actually spent in hands-on training. Students practice shooting handguns on the firearms range, and some even dare to experience a Taser shock. In addition to classes and exercises, students also go on a ride-along with a police officer during an actual shift. This provides a realistic opportunity for students to see how all that they’ve learned can be applied in the field.

The 2015 Citizens Police Academy consisted of ten weekly three-hour sessions from Sept. 2 – Nov. 4, 2015. The following items are covered during the program:

• Domestic Violence

• Use of Force

• Taser

• Firearms

• Defensive Tactics

• DUI Enforcement

• Police Equipment

• Basic Patrol Procedures

• Traffic Stops

• Accident Investigation

• Radar/Lidar

• Search and Seizure

• Investigations

• Merriam City Court

• Tour of the Johnson County Jail

• Tour of Johnson County Communications Center

• Johnson County Crime Lab