The Youth Police Academy is designed to motivate young people to be outstanding citizens through law enforcement education and encourages our young citizens to be partners, in building a safer community; a cornerstone for community policing.

The program runs for one week each summer and it educates its participants on the various facets of criminal law, procedure, and enforcement. The academy is held at police headquarters and includes both academic and practical lessons in a variety of areas.

Most young people do not understand what police officers do, or why they do it. The Youth Police Academy is designed to take the mystery out of law enforcement and to provide a positive learning environment transforming the conception that police officers merely respond to crimes, to being positive role models and a proactive force in creating safe communities.

While not all the participants that attend this academy may want to become police officers in the future, the program does instill confidence and a sense of achievement within our young cadets.

Overall, the Youth Police Academy has proven to be a valuable experience for all involved and has provided a vital link between the Police Department and the youth of the Hopewell Valley Community. The overwhelming success of the Youth Police Academy has far exceeded the expectations of everyone involved. This program attracts a highly motivated group of cadets, and the Instructors thoroughly enjoy their interaction with these young people.

Registration Information:

The 2024 registration information will be available in April of 2024. Please follow us on our social media platforms for more information.

Any questions about the Youth Police Academy can be directed to Detective Steve Ciosek.