Reading Police Department to Host Citizens Police Academy 

READING – Chief David Clark is pleased to announce that the Reading Police Department will offer a Citizens Police Academy (CPA) for community members. 

The CPA will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 18, and will be held every Wednesday night through Nov. 13 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Classes will be held at the Reading Police Department, 15 Union St. 

The CPA allows for community members to learn about law enforcement operations from members of the Police Department. Some of the topics covered in class sessions include domestic violence, dispatch procedures, accident investigation, patrol procedures, impaired operator arrests, firearms and police in schools. 

Graduates who attend at least six of the nine classes are eligible to schedule a ride along with a Reading police officer. 

“The Citizens Police Academy is a great way to strengthen the bond between the community and its law enforcement officers,” said Chief Clark. “Our officers love teaching in the academy and sharing their passion for police work with the community. Anyone interested in learning more about police work should join us.”

To register for the academy, download an application here. Applications should be returned in-person or via email to Community Service Officer Kristen O’Shaughnessy, who can be reached via email at koshaughnessy@ci.reading.ma.us. 

Participants must be 18 years old to register, or 16 years old with parental consent. Space is limited. Reading residents will receive first priority.

Any questions or inquiries should be directed to Community Service Officer O’Shaughnessy at 781-942-6761.