Prince George's County opens citizens police academy for residents

The Prince George's County Police Department announced on Jan. 16 that it will run a 13-week Citizens' Police Academy beginning Feb. 23, 2026, at Police Headquarters, 8801 Police Plaza in Upper Marlboro. The Monday evening program runs 6 to 9 p.m. and is open to adults 18 and older who do not have felony convictions. Residents must apply by the Jan. 30, 2026 deadline through police.mypgc.us.

Organizers describe the academy as an interactive program that provides a behind-the-scenes look at patrol operations, investigations, training and departmental policy. Sessions are designed to combine hands-on activities with open discussions so participants can see how procedures play out in practice and gain direct exposure to the responsibilities and constraints facing officers and supervisors.

For civic-minded residents, the course offers practical benefits beyond curiosity. Attendees can develop a clearer understanding of how police decisions are made, how investigations are handled and where policy gaps or opportunities for reform may exist. That knowledge can sharpen public comment at community meetings, inform advocacy on public safety spending and influence voter decisions about leadership and oversight of local policing.

The eligibility rule barring applicants with felony convictions will limit participation for some community members who may have lived experience with the criminal legal system. That restriction shapes whose perspectives will be present in the classroom and underscores an ongoing governance question: how to balance operational trust and safety with inclusive community representation in public engagement programs.

Logistics are straightforward: the course meets weekly for 13 consecutive Mondays, begins Feb. 23 and runs three hours per session. Interested residents should submit applications online by Jan. 30 at police.mypgc.us. The department's location at Police Headquarters in Upper Marlboro places the program at the center of county operations, enabling instructors to draw on patrol, investigative and training staff.

This Citizens' Police Academy is a direct opportunity for Prince George's County residents to connect with PGPD operations and policy. By participating, residents can turn observations from the classroom into informed civic action—whether that means engaging in community oversight, influencing county budget priorities, or raising specific concerns at town halls. Applications close soon; residents who want a closer look at how local policing works should act now to secure a spot.