Morris Citizens Police Academy Begins Fourth Annual Class

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ—The 4th Annual Morris Township Citizen Police Academy began on Monday, with 22 local citizens participating.

"We have our biggest enrollment yet," said Morris Township Police. "Night one is always exciting as we are able to meet our residents, get to know them, and introduce them to what they will be participating in."

Citizens were given a virtual tour of the Morris County Communications Center by coordinator Matt Glogolich. Participants saw how a call is dispatched and how information is gathered by the communications center through the virtual session.

During the 10-week academy, students will learn about Morris Police and law enforcement operations. Classes are briefed on police organizational structure, use of force, drug trends and police response, arrests, search and seizure, motor vehicle stops, and officer safety.

To join the academy, applicants must be 21, a Morris resident, and submit a completed application, which includes a background check. Academy participants will become CPR certified and train on a firearms simulator.

Each participant will have an opportunity to observe patrol functions firsthand during a ride along. Morris police said the academy is about more than just educating citizens.

"I am proud of my department members and community members that work together to understand the role of the police department, as well as understanding the adversities and challenges that are experienced by our law enforcement on a daily basis," said Morris Township Police Chief Mark DiCarlo. "Our CPA graduates become ambassadors for our agency."