Members of the Citizen's Police Academy receive instruction at the pistol range.
By Staff Reports
(Kaua’i)– The Kaua’i Police Department’s inaugural Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) has hit the halfway point, a rewarding milestone for both participants and the department.
“When we created this program, we were hopeful that the public would show an interest,” said Kaua’i Police Chief Darryl Perry. “Given the positive feedback we’ve received from our current class, and the response to our upcoming class, we’re very pleased and look forward to many more classes to come.”
The 13-course program, which began on July 11, was intended to give people a better understanding of the demands of police work and the culture of law enforcement. It is part of a continued effort to bring greater transparency to the department and build a stronger relationship with the community.
“This program is a chance for ordinary community members to gain a rare insight into the police department,” stated Mr. Tad Miura, CPA participant and president of Déjà Vu Surf Hawai’i. “Because of the sensitive nature of the work, and security measures necessary, few citizens are afforded an opportunity to have an insider’s view of the police department. The department has made available this unique chance to learn of the functions of the various sections within the department.”
The Citizen’s Police Academy combines both classroom and field instruction that give participants a firsthand look into the role of a police officer. Most classes are held at KPD Headquarters in Līhu’e, but also include a visit to the Kīpū Pistol Range and a police ride-along.
Weekly sessions focus on various topics, including: an overview of law enforcement and criminal justice; firearms; crime scenes; domestic violence disputes; special units; and community policing.
“Through this interaction, it became evident that these police department individuals were motivated to this career path from a common desire to serve their communities,” added Miura. “It is encouraging to note the thread of benevolence running through all the officers we met.”
As KPD prepares for the graduation ceremony of its inaugural class on September 19, applications are now being accepted for the second class to begin on September 25. Classes will be held on Tuesday evenings, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., along with two Saturday classes. Applications for the academy are available at Ka Hale Maka‘i o Kaua’i, Līhu’e Headquarters located at 3990 Ka‘ana Street, Suite 200; or online at www.kauai.gov/police.
The program is free for those who are accepted. Qualified applicants will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
Academy hopefuls must be Kaua’i residents, at least 18 years of age with a valid driver’s license, who have never been convicted of a felony, DUI, domestic violence offense or petty misdemeanor within the past five years.
The Kaua’i Police Department reminds the public that while the Citizen’s Police Academy is modeled after a police academy, it is not intended to be a citizens patrol group or an offer of employment, it is simply meant as a means to enhance police and community relations.
“I have enjoyed the informative and engaging sessions immensely, and encourage everyone to look into the Citizens Police Academy program,” Miura declared. “It is a highpoint of my week.”
For more information on the Citizens Police Academy, including a course schedule, visit www.kauai.gov/police or call Lt. Paul Applegate at 241-1606.