Applications Available for Citizens’ Police Academy

Applications for a four-week Citizens’ Police Academy, hosted by the Las Cruces Police Department, are being accepted through Jan. 30, 2026.

The Citizens’ Academy is scheduled to begin Tuesday, March 3, and will be held from 6-9 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday through March 26. Attendees who complete the four-week academy will receive a graduation certificate during a graduation ceremony held March 26.

The Citizens’ Academy provides participants with the philosophy, policies and guiding principles of law enforcement. Students will receive classroom instruction and scenario-based training by personnel on topics such as search and seizure, criminal law, use of force, human performance and crisis intervention techniques.

Participants are also required to complete an eight-hour ride-along with a commissioned officer. The ride-along is often an eye-opening experience for participants as they get to experience what it’s like to go on patrol during an actual shift.

The Citizens’ Academy can accommodate 20 students. Prospective applicants must be 18 years or older and submit a completed application no later than Jan. 30, 2026. Applications will be reviewed, and a background check will be completed for each applicant. Those selected for the academy will be notified in advance of the first class.

Applications for the Citizens’ Academy are available online or at either LCPD Station Office: 217 E. Picacho Ave. or 550 N. Sonoma Ranch Blvd.

Applications must be submitted no later than noon on Friday, Jan. 30, at either Station Office.