Alexandria Police's Community Police Academy To Educate About Police Operations

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Residents who want to learn what a day in the life of an Alexandria police officer is like can register for the Community Police Academy. Registration has opened for the fall academy, according to Alexandria Police.

The free nine-week program is open to City of Alexandria residents 21 and older, providing a firsthand glimpse of how the police department is run. The academy will meet weekly starting Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Alexandria Police Headquarters (3600 Wheeler Avenue). Sessions run through Wednesday, Nov. 12 and include a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

Class size is limited to 25 participants, and a background check is required. Applications are being accepted through Aug. 11 at alexandriava.gov/police.

Alexandria Police said community programs like the academy help police work together on identifying challenges, supporting transparency and shaping solutions. One resident shared how the Community Police Academy provided a better understanding of the police departments and the function of its divisions.

"I was able to go on a ride-along with Officer Moriel on patrol who shared his knowledge of police procedures, laws, and department protocols answering my numerous questions throughout the evening," the resident shared. "He took time to explain various aspects of police work, providing valuable insight into the challenges and responsibilities of law enforcement. Officer Moriel clearly knew the community he patrolled, and I could see that he cared for the residents and was willing to help as needed. His ability to communicate with residents in both English and Spanish was a benefit for the community he serves."

Some of the topics covered at the Community Police Academy are criminal investigations and crime scene processing, traffic safety and speed enforcement using LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), hostage negotiations and the Special Operations Team, firearms range and K9 unit demonstrations, the Co-Response Program featuring officers and mental health professionals, and optional patrol ride-alongs.