How to Enroll in the Harker Heights Citizens Police Academy

The Harker Heights Police Department is now accepting applications for its 18th Citizens Police Academy.

The academy is a fantastic hands-on learning opportunity in which you'll meet and work with local officers to learn about the procedures they follow and techniques they employee in the community.

"The program is free of charge and is designed to give our citizens a greater awareness and better understanding of their local law enforcement agency and the laws by which the agency is governed," City of Harker Height representative Jerry Bark wrote in a media release. "Classes will be instructed by experienced members of the Police Department and will take students through various areas of police work to include: an overview of the Criminal Justice System; Use of Force; Criminal Investigations; Arrest, Search and Seizure; Building Searches and Traffic Stops. The instruction will include both classroom and hands-on education, culminating with a graduation dinner where students receive a certificate of completion."

If you'd like to apply, you'll need to meet a few qualifications:

• You must live or be employed within the city limits of Harker Heights or on Fort Hood.
• You must agree to and pass a background check.
• You must be 18 years of age or older.
• You must complete and turn in an application before or on Monday, February 24.

You can find an online application here, or stop by HHPD at 402 Indian Trail.

Classes will begin Tuesday, March 3, and will be held each Tuesday and Thursday from 6 PM to 9 PM through Thursday, April 9.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Officer Peter Quichocho at  pquichocho@harkerheights.gov or 254-953-5410, or Officer Crystal Thomas  at cthomas@harkerheights.gov or 254-953-5411.