The Needham Police Department will host its first-ever Citizens’ Academy, a six-week program intended to educate community members on policing in Needham and help build and strengthen relationships between Needham residents and their police department.
The Academy is free of charge and will be held in person this fall. The curriculum will provide participants with an understanding of the challenges and issues facing law enforcement and the police’s role in the criminal justice system. Topics covered as part of the curriculum will include Police Procedures, Use of Force, Interactive Scenarios, School Resource Officers, Investigations, Court and Traffic Proceedings and more.
“We’re excited to bring members of the community in to share what we do and to learn from one another,” said Needham Police Chief John Schlittler. “The Academy gives us the chance to interact directly with residents with whom we may otherwise not have the opportunity, and we believe that this kind of relationship-building is critical to the safety and well-being of residents and officers.”
The Academy will be held on each of the following dates from 6 pm to 8 pm at the Center at the Heights:
Wednesday, October 13, 2031
Wednesday, October 20, 2021
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Wednesday, November 3, 2021
Wednesday, November 10, 2021
Wednesday, November 17, 2021.
Applications are currently being accepted through October 1, 2021. Candidates for the Academy must be at least 18 years old, reside in Needham and be able to commit to in-person attendance for each of the six classes. Spaces are limited. Applicants will be notified regarding their acceptance by October 6, 2021.
All state and local Covid-19 protocols will be followed.
For questions regarding the Academy or the application process, please email Lt. John McGrath at jmcgrath@needhamma.gov.