Citizen's Police Academy

New Class StartsFall 2008
The Citizens Police Academy is a FREE 10 week course.

The classes include:
  • Department Overview
  • Legal System - Lake County Courts & Prosecutors Office
  • Tour of the Police Department
  • Gangs - Dangerous Drugs
  • Police Employees Assistance Program
  • Firearms Training Simulator (FATS)
  • School Resource Officer Program
  • Criminal Investigation & Evidence Collection
  • Ride-Along Program
  • K-9 Demonstration
  • Police Bicycle Program
  • 911 Dispatch Center
  • Police Chaplain Program



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Non-Emergency:
219/838-3184
Tips Hotline:
219/838-TIPS
E-mail Us

Citizens Police Academy Class of 2007



Pictured above: (Front Row Left to Right) Jill Johnson, Sally Barker, Reene Miller, Barbara Bell, Dorothy Cruse, Sheila Windsor, Linda Blissmer, Florence Liss, and Theresa Pecsek
(Back Row Left to Right) Sergeant John Banasiak (co-coordinator), Steven Blackman, Joan Roback, Joe Lush, Rob Derengowski, Woodrow Cruse, Rob Williams, Ron Simon, Chief Peter Hojnicki, and Detective Shawn Anderson (co-coordinator)
(Participants Not Pictured) Steve Cosman, Kim Cosman, Jerry McMahon, Leneda Gordon Erickson, Adam Vandergiessen

Q: What is the purpose of conducting a Citizen's Police Academy?
A: To give the public information on how the Highland Police Department works, its polices and procedures, through a series of classes involving instruction by police officers and guest lecturers.

Q: Where did the concept originate?
A: The first program originated in Orlando, Florida in 1984. It was the first U.S. city to start a Citizen's Police Academy.

Q: In what way will the Citizen's Police Academy improve police / community relations?
A: We feel that the more information the public has about the Police Department, the fewer fears and misconceptions will exist. Many conflicts are caused by a simple lack of understanding.

Q: When will the class meet?
A: Classes will meet on Tuesdays from 7:00 P.M. to 9:30 P.M.

Q: Who will attend?
A: We hope to have students from many different backgrounds and careers. You must be at least 18 years old and live or work in the Town of Highland.

Q: How do I apply?
A: Fill out the Application Form (450k PDF) and mail or drop it off at:

Highland Police Department
3333 Ridge Road
Highland, Indiana 46322

If you have any questions, call
Sgt John Banasiak or Ofc. Shawn Anderson at (219) 838-3184