Harlingen Police Department 2017 Annual Report 03-15-18 Annual Report | Page 26

2017 Explorers Citizens Police Academy The law enforcement explorer program is sponsored by Boys Scouts of America and is geared towards young men and women who are interested in a career in law enforcement or a criminal justice related fi eld. The pro- gram offers young adults personal awareness of the criminal justice sys- tem through training, practical experiences, competition, and other activities. The Citizens Police Academy provides training and information to citizens so that they may become active participants in helping make our community saf- er and make informed decisions and judgments about the police department and police activity. It is hoped that the contact between the citizens enrolled in the class and the police offi cers with whom they interact with during the course of the academy will enhance understanding of issues facing diverse groups and dispel myths or misconceptions which may have developed over time. 26