Citizen Police Academy

Now Accepting Applications: 2025 Citizens Police Academy

Hosted by the Cottonwood Police Department
📍 199 S. 6th Street, Cottonwood, AZ 86326

The Cottonwood Police Department is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Citizens Police Academy, an 8-week educational program designed to give community members an inside look at law enforcement operations.

Program Overview

The Citizens Police Academy is a free, interactive experience that allows residents to learn firsthand how and why the Cottonwood Police Department operates as it does. Through direct engagement with officers and staff, participants gain valuable insights into daily police functions, decision-making processes, and the department’s role in the community.

Academy Schedule

• Start Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
• Time: 6:00 PM
• Duration: Weekly sessions over 8 weeks, with one Saturday session included
• Location: Cottonwood Public Safety Building, 199 S. 6th Street, Cottonwood, AZ

Each session will last approximately 2–3 hours and will be led by experienced law enforcement personnel.

What You’ll Learn

Topics will include:

• Patrol Operations and Procedures
• DUI and Accident Investigations
• Criminal Investigations
• K-9 Unit Demonstration
• Firearms and Use of Force Decision-Making
• Defensive Tactics
• SWAT Operations
• Facility Tour and Ride-Along Opportunity

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must live or work in the Verde Valley area
• Must be willing to commit to attending all sessions

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted online or picked up in person:

• Online Application
• In-Person: Visit the Cottonwood Police Department front desk (Monday–Friday)

Application Deadline: Friday, August 7, 2025

Contact for Questions

Sergeant Chad Sinn
📧 Email: csinn@cottonwoodaz.gov
📞 Phone: (928) 634-4246 ext. 2207

We look forward to another successful Citizens Police Academy and the opportunity to strengthen our partnership with the community.