Reading Police Plan Citizens Police Academy

READING, MA — The Reading Police Department will host a Citizens Police Academy beginning next month, offering a series of weekly evening programs at the Reading Police Department and the Pleasant Street Center in Reading.

The program is scheduled to kick off on Tuesday, Sept. 13, concluding on Nov. 8. Classes will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Classes will offer participants everything from a tour of the Reading Police Station to lessons on investigations, firearms, dispatch procedures and crime prevention tactics. Police comfort dogs Cooper and Rusty will also be on hand to visit participants.

The program is open to anyone 16 years or older. Individuals who are 16 or 17 need parental consent, while anyone older than 18 years of age can register without parental consent. There is limited space available.

Graduates of the program who attend at least six of the nine classes will be able to schedule a ride-along with a Reading police officer.

"We're excited to invite community members to come and get a close-up view of the work that we do to protect the community, while also having an opportunity to meet and get to know Reading officers who work in the community," Deputy Chief Christine Amendola said in a recent program announcement.

"We are thrilled to once again offer this amazing program, and I encourage all residents to participate," Chief David Clark added. "Our staff thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to teach classes and interact with the public we serve."

Participants can register for the academy by downloading an online application. Applications should be returned in-person or via email to Community Service Officer Kristen O'Shaughnessy at koshaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us.

For more information, contact O'Shaughnessy at (781) 942-6761.