VALDOSTA – On Thursday evening, November 17, 2016, the 24th session of the Valdosta Police Department’s Citizen’s Police Academy graduated after completing the 10 week program.

The graduates participated in a 10 week program where they studied a variety of topics in an effort to give them a more in-depth understanding of what Valdosta Police Officers are exposed to on a daily basis. The objective of the Citizen’s Police Academy is to give civilians a better understanding of the internal functions of a law enforcement agency and at the same time promoting a relationship between the Valdosta Police Department and the citizens we serve based on mutual respect. Each graduate was presented with a Certificate of Graduation on behalf of Valdosta Police Chief Brian Childress.

“With all of the difficulties facing communities nationwide and the Law Enforcement profession as a whole; the importance of developing one on one relationships with our citizens is essential” Said Lieutenant Bembry

The Valdosta Police Department will be having the next Citizen’s Police Academy in the Spring of 2017. Citizens who are interested need to contact Officer Vernotis Williams at (229)292-7785 for an application. The class is limited in size and applicants are selected on a first come basis. The CPA is given twice a year, there are no fees to attend, and all materials needed are furnished free of charge. The students meet on Thursday evenings during the 10 week class with a graduation ceremony on the last date.

Release from the Valdosta Police Department