By: Nicole Acker

After six weeks of presentations, demonstrations and interactive exercises, 21 participants completed the Menlo Park youth community police academy Oct. 21, 2017. The participants are commended for their commitment and active involvement in this 30 hour program learning about the various aspects of public safety. The curriculum consisted of presentations and practical, hands-on exercises in areas of laws of arrest, crime scene investigations, traffic enforcement, narcotics enforcement, firearms, defensive tactics, fire safety, and many other law enforcement functions and responsibilities. 

Various officers and staff facilitated on topics in their areas of knowledge, skill and experience. The energetic and curious young adults were engaged, attentive and were motivated to learn and openly communicate with staff. One segment highlighted the police department’s Explorer program. At least half of the participants are interested in becoming an Explorer and have submitted their applications. The Menlo Park Explorer program proves to be a successful tool in the recruitment of future police officers. Within the last three police officer academies, two former Menlo Park Explorers became police officers and graduated at the top of their classes receiving their class’ highest achievement awards. The Explorer academy will start in March 2018. Contact Officer Victoria Trask for more information.

The next community police academy will be an adult academy held in 2018. The youth community police academy is held every other year; the next is projected for 2019.