THORNTON, Colo. (KDVR) — The Thornton Police Department just wrapped up its annual Citizens Academy, graduating a group of 18 participants who spent eight weeks learning the ins and outs of law enforcement, without actually joining the force.
The program offers community members a behind-the-scenes look at how the department operates, from dispatch procedures and crime scene investigations to K-9 training scenarios.
“I’ve never actually learned about what the police do,” said Albert Hernandez III, one of the academy’s recent graduates. “You just see them on ‘COPS’ live TV. Everyone has their own opinion, no matter how twisted or crazy it is, so I’d rather get the real education about it.”
Hernandez, 24, said he was excited to get to know officers when he signed up for the academy.
“I would say the biggest thing that kind of struck me most is that they are here for the community,” he said.
Thornton Police Public Information Officer Kylynn McTague said that’s exactly the goal of the program: helping residents better understand how policing works and how to work alongside officers in keeping the city safe.
“It’s not just the police department that plays a part in keeping everyone safe,” McTague said. “We need our community members to understand what we do, how to report crime, and all the work that goes into solving and preventing it.”
The Citizens Academy also encourages participation from people who may have had negative experiences with law enforcement in the past.
“Those are some of the most valuable community members that can join us because they ask the hard questions,” McTague said. “It opens up really great conversations, and we get to be candid.”
Graduates don’t walk away with a badge or a gun, but many stay involved by joining the Thornton Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, which helps raise money and volunteer for the department.
“We host Santa for the PD, we host a golf tournament, we host Easter,” said Lisa Griffin, president of the alumni association. “The alumni association is supporting the police department, whatever they need, we support.”
Anyone interested in next year’s session can find an interest form on the department’s website.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
