By Lt. Amy Campbell
One ride along, and I was hooked! It was the early 90s and, while in high school, I was given the opportunity to ride with a police officer on a shift. I had no previous knowledge of law enforcement or any contact with police officers other than receiving one of those pesky traffic tickets. The ride along changed my life and my career path.
Thirty years later (yikes!), I am honored to participate in a program that allows the same behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement and who the men and women of the Loveland Police Department really are. The Loveland Citizens Police Academy started in 1998 with a vision of creating positive connections between police officers and our town’s residents and business partners. It was a non-conventional way to put someone in the shoes of a profession that very few experience.
Law enforcement is one of the most utilized public services offered and yet few people know what being a police officer entails. Some people question the role and responsibilities of officers and why they may respond the way they do. This causes confusion, emotional reactions, and a disconnect between officers and their community. The Citizens Police Academy was designed as an opportunity for community members to build relationships with their local police department and join in programs to better serve our great city. We have been fortunate to have Loveland city leaders and many community members join our academy and learn firsthand how our police department operates.
The Loveland Citizens Police Academy is held once a year in the fall, and we partner with the Miami Township and Milford Police Departments. There is no cost to join, and the academy is held once a week for 10 weeks. Every week is filled with different experiences including
- Investigations
- Crime scenes
- K-9 units
- Narcotics
- Crisis intervention
- Use of force and media portrayal
- Gun safety and a visit to the gun range
- Partnerships with the fire department and Air Care
- Ride alongs
- A jail tour
- And active shooter training.
Graduation night is a celebration of the completion of the academy, as well as an opportunity to join the
Loveland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association. These amazing people have become part of our Loveland Police Family and continue to serve our community and department through programs like Stuff-A-Cruiser, Drug Take Back Days, and assisting at parades and events.
Just this month, an original LCPA member visited the Safety Center to share memories of her time in the academy 22 years ago. It was an experience that was impactful and meaningful. Loveland is well known for its community engagement, spirit, and pride. I chose Loveland Police Department for the same reasons and enjoy working to continue the great relationships we have with our residents, businesses, and visitors.
Come join us in building the essential partnerships that make this city the incredible place we call home, or work and visit!