Wellington OPP introducing ‘citizen police academy’

ABOYNE – The Wellington OPP is seeking participants for a “Wellington County OPP Citizens Police Academy.”

A press release states the 10-week program will allow residents to learn about policing “in a way very few get to experience” without becoming an officer.

The academy is to begin March 6 and take place on Wednesdays from 7 to 9:30pm at the Aboyne OPP detachment (371 Charles Allan Way).

Selected applicants will be exposed to forensic analysis, canine handling, homicide investigations, court processes, dispatching and collision reconstruction, the release states.

Participants will also tour the Aboyne detachment, learn about the OPP’s volunteer program, hear from recruiters, and observe techniques and equipment used to identify impaired drivers.

Police are wanting “community-minded individuals” who are at least 18 years old, and from varying walks of life.

Applications to participate in the program are available at detachments in Aboyne, Rockwood and Teviotdale, and are due by Feb. 19 at the Aboyne detachment.

Valid photo ID is needed and a “security check” will also be conducted. 

For more information about the program, administrator Carly McKeown can be reached by emailing Carly.McKeown@opp.ca or by calling 519-846-5930.