DVIDS – News – James City County Police Department Hosts Citizens Police Academy Graduation Ceremony

The James City County Police Department hosted its 54th Citizen Police Academy graduation on Wednesday, July 17.

The ceremony honored 20 local residents, including WYDaily journalist Megan Roche, who participated in the 13-week course, which was offered free of charge to JCC residents over the age of 18.

Taught by retired police officers Alan McDowell and Jerry White, the program offers an insider’s look at the work of law enforcement. Topics range from the history and philosophy of the agency to gun safety, criminal investigations, traffic safety, crisis negotiation and community service programs.

This was the first academy since the pandemic.

“The department is very happy that we were able to restart it (the Citizen Academy). This class went very well. Since it was the first since COVID, there were a few little bumps in the road, but the students probably didn’t notice them,” McDowell said.

The motto of the evening was that citizens and police can come together and learn from each other in a positive environment.

“When I ask my officers what the best thing about James City County is, they tell me – and this is coming from our officers – it’s the community. It’s you. Your respect for them. Your support for them. Everything you do to help us do our jobs,” Police Chief Mark Jamison said in his address to the audience. “That’s what it’s all about – the police and the public coming together and making sure we’re safe and building relationships, friendships and partnerships.”

“I want to reiterate some of the chief’s points, which is the importance of public understanding of the day-to-day work of law enforcement,” said keynote speaker Robert Tracci of the Attorney General’s Office and chief of the Major Crime and Emerging Threats Section. “You’ve seen law enforcement work on a daily basis to understand the process and demystify it. There can be so much confusion surrounding law enforcement and the daily challenges they face. The fact that you are here and learning about the challenges helps increase transparency and build public support that is necessary to maintain public trust in our public institutions.”

Following the ceremony, graduates, police officers and guests were invited to a reception to chat about the experience.

“This was a good opportunity for citizens to get a comprehensive look at community policing. They learn things they may not have known otherwise. Going to the police academy allows you to clear up some of the misconceptions that you may have heard about but may not have known for sure – like some of the scenarios you see on TV,” said graduate Julius Evans, public affairs officer for the Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command at Cheatham Annex. “This could be a great public relations program for the personnel in my office. I intend to present it to them for their consideration.”

A 55th Citizens Police Academy will be offered again. Check the website for current information.

“We want people to be interested in what their police department does for them, and we invite anyone who is interested to participate,” McDowell said.