CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Police Department hosted its first-ever Citizens Academy on Saturday, July 11.
Police Chief Joey Duncan said the Academy gives participants an opportunity to learn more about the department and gain a better understanding of the work involved in serving the community.
“The day-long academy provided participants with an inside look at several areas of law enforcement, including Alabama case law, criminal investigations, patrol operations, juvenile procedures and specialized functions within the department,” Duncan said.
Duncan said the participants also took part in hands-on activities and scenarios designed to show the challenges officers face and the decisions that must be made in a matter of seconds while serving the public.
“District Attorney Champ Crocker and Juvenile Probation Director Kay Bell joined Cullman Police Department personnel as instructors for the academy, sharing their experience and knowledge with participants,” he said. “The purpose of the academy was to strengthen the relationship between the department and the citizens it serves. Policing is a partnership, and we believe it is important for our community to understand what we do and why we do it.”
Duncan thanked the officers who helped make the first academy a success.
“This gave citizens a chance to see the training, preparation and dedication that goes into this profession every day,” he said. “It also gave us an opportunity to spend time with our community and hear their questions and concerns. I’m proud of the members of the Cullman Police Department who took the time to share their knowledge and experiences, Their commitment to serving this community goes far beyond answering calls for service.”
The department plans to host future Citizens Academies in the coming months.
