The Chatham-Kent Police Service is now accepting applications for its 2026 Citizen’s Police Academy, a 12-session program designed to give residents an in-depth look at how policing operates in the community.
The program will run Wednesday evenings from March 25 to June 10, 2026, and offers participants the opportunity to engage directly with officers, learn about specialized units and gain insight into modern policing practices. Sessions will include presentations and demonstrations from areas such as major crime, traffic, crime prevention, forensics and critical incident response, along with facility tours, hands-on learning opportunities and a ride-along with a community patrol officer.
Police say the Citizen’s Police Academy was created to strengthen understanding between the service and the community while encouraging open dialogue and transparency. The program is intended to provide a behind-the-scenes experience that helps build trust and connection between residents and police.
The academy is open to Chatham-Kent residents aged 18 and older. Applicants are required to complete an application, submit a copy of photo identification and successfully pass a background check due to the nature of the information shared and activities involved.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at 3 p.m. Interested residents can complete the online application form through the Chatham-Kent Police Service website at ckpolice.com/about/citizens-police-academy or email their application to CPA@chatham-kent.ca.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service says programs like the Citizen’s Police Academy support its ongoing commitment to integrity, professionalism and community engagement while working to maintain a safe and inclusive community.
