Tuscaloosa Police Department Accepting Applications For 2026 Citizens Academy

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa Police Department (TPD) is currently accepting applications for its 2026 Citizens Academy, which offers participants an up-close look at how the department operates.

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TPD says the academy will meet Monday nights in February and March from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Participants can expect to learn about the department’s structure, services and personnel, take part in a ride-along with a patrol officer and spend a day at the shooting range.

Students will also have the chance to conduct a hands-on mock homicide investigation and see how forensic investigators use cutting-edge technology, along with other activities designed to give a firsthand view of daily police work.

TPD said dinner will be provided at each session.

Applications can be completed here.

For more information, contact Briana Freeman at Briana.Freeman@tuscaloosa.com or call (205) 248-4831.

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