Citizen Police Academy

Citizen Police Academy photo

Deadline to apply: Wednesday, December 6th
Click here for the application

The Piscataway Township Police Department is once again offering Township residents a unique opportunity to become familiar with the day-to-day operations of their police department.  Piscataway Police will be conducting its 12-week “Citizen Police Academy” interactive program for Township residents beginning February 6, 2024.

Participants will gain a better understanding and positive insight into the difficult challenges of today’s law enforcement personnel and their decision making.  Topics that will be covered will include:

  • Overviews of the Department’s organization and structure, recruitment and training
  • Roles and responsibilities of the various divisions and sections such as Patrol, Traffic, Investigations, Special Victims and Community Policing
  • Concepts behind use of force and experience firearms simulation training


In addition, participants will be given an opportunity to experience a “ride along” with a police officer on patrol.  Those completing the training will receive certification in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

The Citizen Police Academy is open to Piscataway Township residents who are over 21 years of age and who successfully complete a thorough background investigation. “Citizen Recruits” will meet one night a week on each Tuesday for two hours and one selected Saturday.  There is no cost to attend.  Class size will be limited.

Please click here for an application.  Interested residents may contact Detective Calvin Laughlin of the Community Policing Section at (732) 562-2349 for additional information.

The deadline to apply for the program is December 6, 2023.  Completed applications must be dropped off to the Police Department by the deadline for consideration.

This program, nationally recognized by the National Citizen Police Academy Association, is one of many initiatives for which the Department commits to build partnerships within the community they protect and serve.  Participants from previous recruit classes have applauded the components of the curriculum.