We strongly believe that a positive relationship between police and the community is essential to achieve our common goals.
The Community Academy helps build that relationship.
Captain Nik Dunbar originated the Pierce County Sheriff's Department Community Academy in 1992 at the request of then Sheriff John Shields. The academy operates on the belief that the more citizens know about the department, the better relations will be between citizens and law enforcement.
In fact, the mission statement of the academy is: 'Promoting a positive partnership between the community and law enforcement through education.'
What is the Community Academy?
The Community Academy is a 13-week program designed to provide interested citizens of Pierce County and opportunity to learn first-hand about the Sheriff's Department.
What is the Purpose of the Academy?
The purpose of the Community Academy is to increase understanding between the department and the citizens of Pierce County through education. Citizen participants will become familiar with the various facets of the Sheriff's Department, law enforcement's role in the criminal justice system, and the daily tasks of law enforcement officers. With increased understanding, Pierce County citizens and law enforcement together can achieve realistic solutions to neighborhood problems relating to crime, fear of crime, and neighborhood decay.
Participation requires a commitment of one evening per week for 13 weeks. Each class lasts an average of 2-1/2 hours.
When is the Community Academy?
Community Academy start dates run from September through March each year, and are held on the same evening during the week, with the exception of one Saturday session-the chance to drive a marked, fully operational patrol car.
Who is eligible to take the Course?
The Community Academy is a course specifically intended for citizens who are active in their communities and who wish to learn more about law enforcement in Pierce County. There are no special requirements for taking the course, but ideally, each session will include a broad range of citizens from the community.
What Subjects Are Covered?
Course Outline:
- Introductions and Course Overview
- Constitutional Law
- Department Overview, Hiring and Training
- LESA Communications tour
- Patrol Procedures and Gangs
- Road trip to Forensic Investigations and Narcotics
- Internal Affairs and Detectives
- Crime Analysis, K-9 demonstration
- Criminal Justice System
- Pierce County Jail tour
- Volunteers, Narcotics, and Domestic Violence
- Marksman Road Trip
- Graduation
