Bainbridge’s citizen police academy is starting soon

January 28, 2019 9:30 am
Bainbridge’s citizen police academy is starting soon

The Bainbridge Island Police Department is looking for recruits for the 2019 Bainbridge Island Citizens’ Police Academy.

Anyone who’s curious about law enforcement is invited to apply for a free hands-on learning experience with Bainbridge police. Officials say the department’s Citizens’ Police Academy gives citizens access to information on how the police department functions. The intent of the program isn’t to prepare people for a career in law enforcement, but simply to give islanders a chance to see how public safety works and better understand the types of challenges officers face daily.

“The BIPD Citizens Academy was beyond expectations for me,” said David Lewis, a Class of 2011 graduate.

“The classes were fun, friendly and informative, and I developed a greater appreciation of how all the island departments work and inter-relate,” he added. “It gave me a better understanding of the community I live in and a deep respect for all the men and women in our protective and emergency services. I have recommended to all my friends to take the Citizens Academy. Many have — and had a similar, positive experience to mine.”

The Citizens’ Police Academy is offered once a year, and the 2019 program runs from Feb. 6 through April 24. Classes are held Wednesday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., plus two Saturday sessions. Students have the opportunity to visit the 911 dispatch center, the Kitsap County Coroner’s Office, and the Kitsap County Jail.

“The program was started to give citizens insight into what officers do while on patrol,” said Police Chief Matthew Hamner. “It’s a great opportunity, as students get to experience quite a bit behind the scenes and also have the opportunity to get acquainted with some of the officers who serve them.”

Applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and class size is limited. Call 206-842-5211 to get an application or visit the Police page on the city website at www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us/135/Citizens-Academy.

For questions, contact Officer Carla Sias by email at csias@bainbridgewa.gov.