The Covington Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy began its five-week class Thursday evening with around 20 participants.

Citizens gathered at CPD to meet and greet with elected officials and department heads, including Covington Mayor

Ronnie Johnston, City Manager Leigh Ann Knight and Covington Police Chief Stacey Cotton for the first evening of the course.

The academy was created to help residents of Covington see, understand and interact with the CPD. Participants learn about the available services, resources and programs offered by the department. Among the sessions covered are the structure of the police department, patrol functions, criminal investigations, specialized units, firearms training, use of force and use of force considerations. Classes combine lectures, demonstrations and interactive activities.

This coming Thursday, the citizens will learn about the patrol unit, including response to calls for service and the Taser.
The itinerary for week three includes Special Unit, K-9/SWAT demonstration and evidence. On March 26, the lessons include criminal investigations, crime scene/evidence. That Saturday, March 28, will be firearms lessons, use of force and a family cookout.

The final day of the academy includes the FATS Simulator, teaching judgmental shooting exercises.