Want to know what it’s really like to work in law enforcement? The Dover Police Department is opening its doors to the public through its 2026 Citizen Police Academy, and applications are now being accepted.
The program is completely free of charge and will run on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., kicking off on September 9, 2026, and wrapping up on November 4, 2026.
Designed to give everyday residents a genuine look at how policing works, the academy walks participants through the procedures, challenges, and responsibilities that officers face. Attendees will have direct access to Dover Police officers, with opportunities to ask questions and better understand the day-to-day work that goes into keeping the community safe.
You don’t have to live in the City of Dover to apply — the program is open to community members regardless of where they reside.
The Citizen Police Academy is built around three core goals: educating the public about department procedures and the realities of law enforcement; giving residents the chance to personally meet the officers who serve them; and creating a space where officers can hear directly from the people in their community to build stronger partnerships.
Participants can expect a mix of presentations, demonstrations, videos, and hands-on activities covering a wide range of topics, including:
- Meet the Chief and a Question and Answer Session
- Community Policing
- Laws of Arrest
- Search and Seizure
- Emergency Communications — the 9-1-1 Center
- Internal Affairs
- Criminal Investigations
- Crisis Negotiation Team
- Crime Scene Investigation and Forensics
- Patrol Operations
- Canine Unit
- Drugs, Vice, and Organized Crime Unit
- Special Operations Response Team
- Use of Force Training
- Traffic Stops
- Public Information
Beyond the classroom, each person who completes the program will also have the chance to ride along with a Dover Police officer on patrol, offering a firsthand glimpse into what officers experience during a typical shift.
Applications must be turned in no later than Friday, August 7, 2026, by 3:00 p.m. Spots are limited, so interested residents are encouraged to get their applications in as soon as possible.
The application can be found on the Dover Police Department’s Citizen Police Academy webpage. For more information, reach out to the Dover Police Department’s Public Information Office.
