Westport Police Accepting Applications For 2026 Citizens’ Police Academy

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Police Department is accepting applications for its 2026 Citizens’ Police Academy, a nine-week program beginning Sept. 8.

The academy is open to Westport residents age 21 and older and is limited to 25 participants. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The program provides participants with information about the department’s operations, responsibilities and law enforcement functions through classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on activities and interaction with department personnel.

Sessions will cover areas including patrol operations, criminal investigations and emergency response. Instructors will include Westport police officers, attorneys from Stamford Superior Court and members of Westport Emergency Medical Services.

Participants will also have an opportunity to complete a patrol ride-along and receive Stop the Bleed training.

Classes will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 8, 15, 22 and 29; Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27; and Nov. 10.

According to the department, the academy typically reaches its 25-person capacity and often has a waitlist.

Applications are available at Westport Police Headquarters, 50 Jesup Road. Completed applications are due by Friday, Aug. 21, and may be returned to police headquarters to the attention of Capt. Jillian Cabana or emailed to jcabana@westportct.gov.