In a pioneering move to promote transparency and foster stronger ties with the community, the Kinston Police Department (KPD) will launch its first-ever Citizen's Police Academy this October. Spearheaded by Sergeant Julian Walker, the 8-week program aims to create a platform for citizens to interact with law enforcement, learn about the dos and don'ts of the law, and gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the police department.

Walker believes that this initiative will be instrumental in bringing the community together, providing members with the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the laws that govern society and how they are applied in real-life situations.

"I hope they get the knowledge of the laws and understand what we do at the police department," he said. "It teaches everyone the proper way to react and hold everyone accountable, even us."

The academy will blend classroom sessions with practical exercises, allowing participants to experience law enforcement operations and witness the decision-making processes that officers undergo daily. By explaining the reasoning behind police actions, Walker aims to build partnerships and establish stakeholders in the community. A message supported by the chief.

"Explaining the why behind what we do, whether it's to my supervisors or officers, has always helped me out," Kinston Police Chief Keith Goyette explained.

The first Citizen's Police Academy will be limited to twelve participants to ensure an intimate and engaging experience for everyone involved. With one night a week dedicated to the program, participants will have the opportunity to engage with officers and gain insights into the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis.

One significant aspect that Goyette emphasizes is the academy's potential as a recruitment tool for the KPD. With the current shortage of law enforcement officers, this initiative could attract individuals interested in pursuing a career in policing. "Right now, as we speak, I have 10 openings," he stated. "As soon as we fill them, someone retires or goes somewhere else. It's tough. It's everywhere, not just Kinston."

The idea for the Citizen's Police Academy was inspired by Walker's experience in a management class several years ago. For a project during the course, he designed the blueprint for a citizen-focused police academy. Upon graduating, he passed the concept to KPD, where it was enthusiastically adopted for implementation.

"When he graduated from the program, he turned it over to me, and I said, 'Oh yeah, we're going to use it,'" Goyette remarked.

The Ayden police department's positive feedback on a similar initiative further encouraged the KPD to go ahead with this community-building venture. By bridging the gap between law enforcement and civilians, the Citizen's Police Academy aims to create a more informed, empathetic, and united community in Kinston.

As the program commences in October, Kinston residents are urged to participate and engage with the police department to learn about the law, law enforcement operations, and foster a collaborative approach to keeping the community safe. For more information, contact Walker at Julian.Walker@ci.kinston.nc.us or (252) 939-3184.