Community Police Academy

The Community Police Academy is a 9 week program designed to provide Gilroy residents with an inside look at the Gilroy Police Department.  The goal is to promote a better understanding and partnership between the department and the community.  Participants will meet police personnel and experience some of their duties.

During the 9 weeks, participants will receive information in a variety of interesting topics. There will be a mixture of lectures, power point presentations, a tour, demonstrations and hands on activities in a safe and controlled environment. The weekly sessions are not intended to train participants to be law enforcement professionals, but rather produce more informed citizens. Each session will be taught by police personnel. Topics vary each week.

Some of the topics included are:

  • Patrol Operations
  • Communications
  • Traffic Division
  • K-9 and Mounted Unit
  • Detective Unit
  • Crime Scene Investigations
  • S.W.A.T.
  • Hostage Negotiations

Participants are required to attend all sessions and are encouraged to actively engage in class discussions. Participants will evaluate each session and its instructor(s). There is no cost to participate in the Community Police Academy.

Selection Process and Requirements

Potential candidates for the Community Police Academy must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Live or work within Gilroy city limits
  • No prior felony convictions
  • No misdemeanor arrests within 1 year of applying
  • Must be able to attend all sessions
  • Final selection will be made by Chief of Police

An application must be completed and a background check will be conducted on each applicant.