Community Police Academy to “Bridge the Gap” Between Public and Police

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga Police Department discussed the Community Police Academy at today’s press conference.

It was previously named the Citizens Police Academy, but Chief Murphy said she wanted the name to be more inclusive.

The academy is a series of weekly commitments for about 9 to 10 weeks.

People are able to interact with different departmental units.

“It gives an opportunity for community member to understand why we do the things we do,” Asst. Chief Glenn Scruggs said. “But it also offers an opportunity to ask questions that might make us be more specific about relaying that information to the general public.”

Chief Murphy said the goal is to give people a different perspective.

She also said the program will help “bridge the gap” between the public and police.

Each session will be about two hours long.