History

A Citizens' Police Academy was started in 1997 and has continued to be successful.  In 1999 Troop K of the Pennsylvania State Police joined Brookhaven to run a co-cordinated CPA.  It is the only one in the state and possibly in the nation.  Also, an advanced class titled CPA II was started in 1999.  Citizens are taught first aid, CPR and firearms safety.  The basic class is 15 weeks in length and the advanced class is seven weeks.  The basic class consists of classes on hiring procedures, Pre-patrol procedures, DUI, Investigation, Live Scan fingerprinting and digital photographing, a visit to the 911 center, a canine demonstration, Fire Marshall, Crises Negotiations, Martial Arts Self Defense, State Police Mounted Unit, Tactical Response Team (SWAT), Victims Organizations, White Collar Crime, Identity theft, Composite sketching, State Police Helicoptor, Court Room Procedures, Outlaw Biker Gangs, Ride-a-long program and finally graduation.

 A total of 344 have completed the basic class and 180 have completed the first aid portion of the advanced class and 158 have completed the firearms portion.  Graduates of the basic class receive citations or certificates from the Brookhaven Police Department, the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives, the Pennsylvania Senate and United States Congress.  Graduates of the advanced class receive certification from the American Red Cross and the National Rifle Association.   Information on the classes can be obtained by calling 610-876-6142, extension 11 (Sandra Fuller) or 610-876-6143,extension 16 (Chief Eller).