2025 Citizen's Police Academy

The Citizen's Police Academy is a program designed to foster stronger relationships between the Portsmouth New Hampshire Police Department and the community they serve. Its purpose is to enhance mutual understanding, build trust, and educate community members about the operations, challenges, and responsibilities of law enforcement. By participating in a Citizen's Police Academy, residents gain valuable insight into law enforcement while police officers learn more about the community's needs and concerns, resulting in a stronger, more collaborative relationship.

Applicant Requirements & Academy Guidelines:

Participants must be a minimum of 21 years old at the start of the program. It is anticipated the program will begin on January 29th, 2025, and will continue for eight (8) weeks, excluding February school vacation week. Graduation will be on the last night of the academy. The classes will be held on Wednesday evenings at the Portsmouth Police Department from 6PM to 9PM. In addition, each participant is encouraged to complete one hour in court as an observer, as well as two hours on a ride-along while the academy is in session. A participant is allowed to miss one (1) session and still graduate from the academy.

Upon acceptance into the program, participants can expect an informative session, examining the many duties of the Portsmouth Police Department. The program will consist of classroom interactive education with various instructors, demonstrations, and visits from outside organizations who are involved with the department and community.

Due to the sensitive nature of the information presented to participants, a limited background investigation will be conducted on all applicants. Along with the application, you will find a waiver attached (please click "Apply Here" link to access application and waiver). THESE MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO PARTICIPATION IN THIS PROGRAM. Please fill out the application & waiver by January 8th, 2025. Applications can be mailed, scanned and emailed, or dropped off at the police department.

Apply Here: 2025 Citizen's Police Academy Application

*Please direct all applications and any questions you may have to Det. Rochelle Jones at (603) 610-7503 or jonesr@portsmouthnhpd.gov. 

Here are the key objectives of a Citizen's Police Academy:

  1. Increase Awareness

    1. Provide residents with an inside look at daily operations and challenges faced by police officers.
    2. Educate participants about the procedural aspects of law enforcement, such as criminal investigations and traffic enforcement. 

  2. Promote Transparency

    1. Improve public understanding of police policies, decision-making processes, and the reasoning behind certain actions.
    2. Address misconceptions or stereotypes about law enforcement practices.

  3. Enhance Communication

    1. Create an open dialogue between officers and residents to discuss community concerns and police practices.
    2. Foster opportunities for mutual feedback to improve community safety strategies.

  4. Enhance Collaboration

    1. Empower participants to become informed advocates and partners in crime prevention efforts.
    2. Encourage joint efforts between law enforcement and the community to address local safety challenges.

  5. Build Trust

    1. Develop positive relationships by humanizing the badge, allowing community members to see officers as individuals.
    2. Promote understanding of the challenges officers face, fostering empathy and cooperation.

Typical Program Structure:

  • Classes and Presentations: Covering topics like patrol procedures, community policing.
  • Practical Activities: Ride-alongs with officers, demonstrations.
  • Open Discussions: Opportunities for participants to ask questions and voice concerns directly to law enforcement.