Citizens Police Academy
The Huntsville Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy offers a behind-the-scenes look at HPD operations and the realities of modern law enforcement. Participants gain firsthand insight into the department’s culture, structure and day-to-day practices while engaging directly with the officers who serve our community.
Designed to strengthen trust, understanding and transparency, the academy creates meaningful opportunities for dialogue between residents and law enforcement. This is a volunteer educational program intended to inform and engage the community – it is not a path to employment with the police department.
The Citizens Police Academy is a nine-week program featuring classroom instruction and interactive learning experiences. During the Spring 2026 session, participants will meet every Tuesday from March 24 through May 26, from 6-9 p.m.
For additional information, please contact the Huntsville Police Academy at 256-746-4409.
The application process for HPD’s Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy have closed. Please check back for information on future academy sessions.
PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS
- Must be at least 19 years of age
- Must be a resident, college student or business owner in the City of Huntsville
- No prior felony convictions
- No outstanding warrants
- No pending criminal cases
Cameras, recording devices and weapons (including those carried with a pistol permit) are strictly prohibited while attending the Huntsville Citizens Police Academy. Attendees are required to wear appropriate attire, maintain a neat and clean appearance and adhere to a business casual dress code.
TOPICS COVERED
- Structure of the Huntsville Police Department
- Civil and Criminal Law
- Community Policing
- Precinct Operation
- Communications (911 Center)
- K-9
- SWAT
- Domestic Violence
- Narcotics/Gangs
