Southampton Town Police to host 2023 civilian academy

The Southampton Town Police Department is now accepting applications for its 2023 civilian academy.

The academy is a 14-week educational program that provides town residents with training at police headquarters for the purpose of bringing the police department and the community closer together. It opens up the lines of communication and builds trust between the police and the community. The academy dispels misconceptions about how the police department operates and gives the public a better understanding of what their police can and cannot do. There is no physical component to the program.

Classes are held on various topics including the laws of arrest, search and seizure, use of force, driving while intoxicated, narcotics enforcement, domestic violence, investigations, gangs, and other topics. Additionally, students have the option of riding along with Southampton Town police officers for a tour of duty and attending a demonstration at the Police Firearms Range & Emergency Vehicle Operations Course.

The Southampton Town Police Department’s 2023 civilian academy will begin on Jan. 26 and will continue once a week for 14 weeks from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Seats are limited and Southampton Town Residents will be given priority. Non-residents will be admitted based on availability of seats.

To apply, contact Lt. Susan Ralph via email at Sralph@southamptontownny.gov. A short application will be provided via email or postal mail upon request. Completed applications will be accepted until Dec. 20.