"The greatest thing I got out of this course is an appreciation of how much the LPD does and how it does its work in such a professional manner. I am tremendously impressed with the individual and collective professionalism I found in the department."

"It changed my perception of police and especially LPD. A great group of very dedicated people."

"Very educational, I think more people in the community should attend this class."

"I really did not have a clue about real police work until taking this class. I have been very impressed by all of the police officers I have met and rode with."

These anonymous comments are from citizens who have participated in the Lexington Police Department's Citizen's Academy. The Citizen's Police Academy provides an opportunity for citizens to learn firsthand about police operations. Through a series of lectures, field trips, and simulated activities, citizens are provided training similar to that of an actual police officer. The Academy is of benefit to the community and the department because it builds relationships and creates a cadre of citizens who are better informed about the reality of police work.

The Academy runs for ten weeks with most classes held between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Unless otherwise specified, classes are conducted at the Police Department’s training facility. Some off-site visits are made to other relevant locations.

Instruction is provided by Town of Lexington Police Department personnel, with topics covered including

    Overview of Department Operations and Organization

    Introduction to Community Oriented Policing

    Patrol Functions / Traffic Control

    Criminal Investigations / Crime Scene Investigation

    Introduction to Criminal Law and Courtroom Procedure

    Special Operations

    Narcotics / Canine Operations

    Victim Witness Assistance / Criminal Domestic Violence / Child and Elder Abuse

    Police Communications

    Police Use of Force

    Reserve Officer Program

    School Resource Officer Program

Participants must be a minimum of 21 years of age, reside or work in the Town of Lexington, and pass a criminal history background check. Each class will be limited to a maximum of twenty students and a minimum of ten students.

The next session of the Academy is scheduled to run in Spring 2008 and will likely start in March. If you are interested in participating, download and complete the application or contact Corporal Doug Lee at (803) 359-6260 for additional information.