New Canaan Civilian Police Academy Accepting Applications

The Civilian Police Academy is accepting applications for its fall 2011 session.

The 10-week course will enroll 20 students, and, yes, you do have to apply.

“Applicants will have to go through a "mini" background check,” Sgt. Louis Gannon, who is overseeing the program for the department, told Patch.

But, no, graduates won’t be able to make citizens arrests or carry a gun.

“They don’t get any powers out of it. It’s just a chance to be exposed to different aspects of the job,” Gannon said.

This is the third year New Canaan has offered its Civilian Police Academy, which gives enrollees a hands-on and behind-the-scenes look at the department.

“We do a drill one night where they’re put into a simunitions,” Gannon said. “A couple officers act as bad people, and you have to respond as if you’re an officer. It’s similar to what we would do in our training.”

Gannon said different officers make presentations about their areas of expertise. Sgt. Carol Ogrinc, of the department’s Youth Division, talks about juvenile law. DWI and motor vehicle law is also on the schedule. There’s also a ride-along night, that Gannon said is a highlight. The most popular class?

“People are always impressed with the special response team presentation,” Gannon said.

Classes will be held every Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. from Sept. 13 through Nov. 19.

The class is open to New Canaan residents and applicants must be 18 or older to apply. Last year's students ranged from about 30-60-years-old Gannon said.The program is limited to 20 attendees on a first-come-first-served basis, Gannon said.  Assuming you pass that background check.

No, you don’t graduate with any special powers, but you will graduate with a certificate and an understanding of the workings of the New Canaan Police Department. 

To apply for the 2011 Civilian Police Academy, click here.