One of the most meaningful ways to strengthen trust and understanding between residents and law enforcement is through education and direct engagement. That’s exactly what the Citizens’ Police Academy (CPA) offered by the Prince George’s County Police Department provides—and Class 53 is now open for applications.

This multi-week academy gives residents, business owners, and people who work in Prince George’s County a behind-the-scenes look at how policing actually works. Participants learn directly from PGPD officers and staff about patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, use-of-force policies, crime prevention, and community policing.

📅 Class Schedule at a Glance

  • Start Date: Monday, February 23, 2026

  • Duration: 13 weeks

  • Meeting Frequency: Once a week

  • Day & Time: Monday evenings, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

  • Location: PGPD Police Plaza, 8801 Police Plaza, Upper Marlboro, MD

All sessions are held in person, allowing for direct interaction, open discussion, and hands-on learning.

What Participants Will Learn

Throughout the 13-week program, participants will hear from command staff and specialized units and explore topics such as:

  • Patrol and district operations

  • Criminal investigations

  • Traffic enforcement and safety

  • Police training and use-of-force standards

  • Crime prevention strategies

  • Community policing and accountability

This is not a recruiting program. It is an educational and dialogue-based experience designed to help residents better understand how PGPD operates and how the community and police can work together more effectively.

Why This Matters

Many residents have questions or concerns about public safety and policing. The Citizens’ Police Academy creates a constructive space to move beyond headlines and social media—replacing assumptions with knowledge, transparency, and personal interaction.

Graduates often say the program gives them a deeper appreciation of police work and equips them to be more informed and engaged community members.

Who Should Apply?

  • Prince George’s County residents

  • People who work or own businesses in the county

  • Civic association leaders and community advocates

  • Anyone interested in learning how policing works in practice

Spots are limited, and applications are reviewed by PGPD.

🔗 Learn more and apply here:
https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/police/citizens-police-academy

📣 If you live or work in Prince George’s County—especially in Division 1—I strongly encourage you to apply for Citizens’ Police Academy Class 53. It’s a valuable opportunity to learn, ask questions, and strengthen community–police relationships.