Civilian Police Academy

About the Academy

Civilian Police Academy BadgeSince 1994 the Victoria Police Department (VPD) has afforded its citizens an opportunity to experience our department in a fun and unique way. Through the Civilian Academy, citizens are exposed to many facets of law enforcement that have never been offered to citizens before.

The Civilian Police Academy (PDF) is an 11-week program designed to give the participants a working knowledge of the VPD. It consists of a series of classes and discussions held once a week, on Tuesday evenings from 6 pm until 9 pm, and two Saturday mornings.

Classes are held once a year beginning in February. We are always accepting applications for the next class.

Cost

It’s free! Thanks to the financial support of local businesses, these classes are offered at no charge for those selected to attend. Students will have the opportunity to purchase a class t-shirt is they choose to.

Note: Completion of this course does not lead to job positions in law enforcement.

What to Expect

Topics of interest are taught by law enforcement officials for the purposes of enlightening attendees to how their police department works. Many of the classes provide "hands-on" experiences that provide an element of excitement and participation. In addition to attending the class sessions, each participant must complete a four hour ride-along with a patrol officer.

Who Can Attend

Individuals who apply for the Civilian Police Academy must be at least 18 years of age. They must also live, work, or own property in Victoria County.

Applying

Application (PDF) may be made at the main police department or at the Crime Prevention Office (located at Victoria Mall).

Class size is limited and classes fill quickly, so it is recommended that you apply soon.

Civilian Police Academy Alumni Association

Graduates can continue their academy experience by joining the VPD Civilian Academy Alumni Association (CPAAA). The Alumni maintain close ties with the police department and assist the department in various community programs and projects. For a tentative schedule of events or more information email Crime Prevention at 361-485-3808.

The CPAAA assists with many events which include:

  • Actors in traffic stops and building searches for CPA
  • Assists with parking at many events
  • Burglary Report Cards for vehicle burglary prevention
  • Child Print - A child safety program
  • Neighborhood Watch Programs
  • Other community events such as parades and bridal fairs
  • VIN Etching - For vehicle theft prevention

If you are interested with the Alumni assisting in your event download and return the Volunteer Assistance Information and Application Form (PDF).

College Scholarships

The CPAAA offers college scholarships to students from Victoria County and planning to study criminal justice in college OR the student must be the son, daughter or spouse of an employee of the VPD or Victoria County Sheriff’s Department pursuing any major in college.

The amount of the scholarship will not exceed $750, but could be less. There will be a limit of $750 per family, per year. Not more than two scholarships will be awarded to one individual.

The scholarship will only apply for college tuition or books, not conferences or educational trips.

View the Scholarship Application Form and Instructions (PDF).