Citizen Police Academy for Seniors (CPAS)

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The Citizen Police Academy for Seniors provides an opportunity for senior citizens to get an inside look at local law enforcement.

The Academy meets one day per week over eight weeks. During this time, police officers, civilians, and members of other City agencies and other community partners instruct seniors on a variety of subjects pertaining to law enforcement. 

All meetings are held during the day, and presenters are brought to the class, so seniors do not have to travel to other locations. Each class is approximately three hours long. 

The Academy begins with a welcome from the Chief of Police and ends with a graduation to celebrate the seniors’ accomplishment!

Informational Brochure


  1. Citizen Police Academy for Seniors Brochure (PDF)
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Overview

The goal of the Academy is to:
  • Increase understanding through education and interaction with members of the Police Department
  • Give our senior citizens the opportunity to learn why police officers "can" and/or "cannot" do certain things
  • Increase police awareness to dispel suspicions, and to increase police/community rapport through educational programs

Where

Class locations vary. The sessions are usually hosted by a community partner (such as a church, community center or retirement community) and rotate throughout our three precincts.

Instructions Received

Classroom Instruction
  • Policing: Past, Present, and Future
  • When, Why, and How to Call the Police
  • Personal Safety
  • Frauds, Scams, and Schemes
  • Community Resources for Senior Citizens
Demonstrations
  • K-9 Unit

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 55 years of age
  • Must be connected to the City of Newport News (live, work, attend church, etc.) 
  • Must pass a criminal background check