Moorhead Police Bringing Back Citizen's Police Academy

(Moorhead, MN) -- After having to cancel last year's Citizens Police Academy due to the pandemic, Moorhead PD is anxious to host its 25th academy. 

"This academy is so important because not only is it helpful for citizens to understand the work of the Police Department, it is equally important for the Police Department to learn about the concerns and needs of the citizens they serve" says Police Chief Shannon Monroe. The academy begins Thursday, September 9th and ends Thursday, November 18th. Classes run weekly from 6-9 pm and participants are expected to commit to attending at least 8 of the 10 sessions. 

The academy promises to be informative and fun with lots of  hands-on experiences as participants get a glimpse of what it is like to be a police officer. Academy participants will experience shoot/don't shoot scenarios in a realistic firearm simulator, participate in mock traffic stops, watch a demonstration of the skills of our K9 units, see all the SWAT equipment, learn about investigations including narcotics and DWI arrests, hear from MPD's School Resource Officers and learn about MPD's youth programs, gain an understanding on use of force and officer safety concerns and much more!

Moorhead citizens can apply online by clicking here and searching "academy" or contact MHPD's Community Policing Coordinator for assistance at (218) 299-5143. 

Applicants must be age 18 or older and live or work in Moorhead. The application deadline is Monday, August 23rd. If all 24 spots are not filled, the academy will be postponed.