Opening Night for Lakeland Citizens Police Academy

The Lakeland Police Department's 2007 Citizens Police Academy got underway Wednesday evening with the first class of this year's academy being held at the police station. This marks the 22nd year the Lakeland Police Department has hosted a citizens academy. Over 60 community members were accepted into this year's class making it as one of the largest academies ever for the police department.

Chief of Police Roger Boatner (pictured above) hosted the first session's presentation as he thanked the participants for dedicating their time to learn more about the police department. His senior staff members were introduced to the class and gave a preview of their upcoming presentations, which will give a complete overview of how the police department is organized and operates.

Over the next three months, class members will get the opportunity to learn about the duties and responsibilities of every bureau and division within the agency. A day at the shooting range is scheduled for one Saturday as well as various department tours around the station.

Thanks go to the CPA Alumni Association for preparing a welcoming dinner for tonight's class.

In closing, we invite any of the current class members to add their comments about what they learned tonight.

-Asst Chief Bill LePere

Comments

[Kathy]

I am one of the many who are in the new class. I wish to tell everyone to come to the new class next year. I had the most fun last night. And the officers are warm,friendly and funny. And we are going to learn so much in the next 14 weeks. And a HUGE thank you to the men and women who served us food and drinks. Can't wait till next weeks class.
Thank you.