Third Annual Community Police Academy

The West Plains Police Department has announced the start of the application process for the third annual Community Police Academy (CPA). The academy is open to all community members who live or work in the City of West Plains.

The CPA will be held from September 13, 2023, to November 15, 2023. Classes are conducted by various members of the department each Wednesday night from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Emergency Operations Center located at the West Plains Police Department. Applications may be found online at this link or in the lobby of the West Plains Police Department at 1912 Holiday Lane.

A banquet will be held on November 15, for all graduates. The due date for the applications is August 23.

Individuals attending the Academy gain an in-depth look at the various divisions within the West Plains Police Department, says the department’s announcement. Classroom discussions, hands-on practical scenarios, and a ride-along make the learning experience come alive for participants but does not certify attendees in any way as police officers.

“The knowledge gained helps to open communication and therefore promotes understanding of the very difficult yet rewarding profession of law enforcement,” says the release. 

Topics in the academy will include meeting Chief Stephen Monticelli and his command staff, a tour of WPPD, Police Reserve Officer Program, emergency communications, patrol procedures, geographic policing, general investigations, SRT Team, SWAT, active shooter, use of force, drug task force, cybercrimes, firearms safety, trip to the range, K9 operations, traffic stops, crime scenes and evidence,  emergency management systems, the crisis negotiations team, and a practical night.