Citizen's Police Academy Lets You Be A Cop - ABC5 News Des Moines, IA

Citizen's Police Academy Lets You Be A Cop

By: Jason Rantala

@jarantala

jrantala@myabc5.com

Have you ever wanted to know what it's like to pull over a cop?

For 12 years, the West Des Moines Police Department has held its Citizen's Police Academy, where those in the course can do just that.

Course participants get to go with police on ride alongs, visit the 911 dispatch center, shoot guns in the firing range and simulate traffic stops.

The city says the program helps strengthen the bond between the department and the community.

"We try to educate the public about what we do and why we do it," said Lieutenant Jim Barrett with West Des Moines Police.

It's all in an effort to better communicate with the public by building relationships and partnerships.

It also allows the police to learn from the public, as well.

"We have people that have gone through the first class 12 years ago that are still volunteering for the police department, so I think it forms a relationship," said Barrett.

Classes begin March 5th.

You can sign up by going to www.wdm.iowa.gov or by calling Lieutenant Barrett at 515-222–3342.