Registration Now Open for Citizens Police Academy with Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office
Ever wondered what it’s really like to wear the badge, ride in a patrol car, or make split-second decisions in high-stakes situations? This fall, Harris County residents—including those right here in Oak Park Trails—have a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of local law enforcement through the Citizens Police Academy, hosted by Constable Terry Allbritton and the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable’s Office.
One of the department’s most popular community engagement programs, the Citizens Police Academy returns October 1, 2025, offering a comprehensive and immersive 10-week experience designed to build trust, understanding, and insight between law enforcement officers and the community they serve.
Held weekly on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., the classes will take place at the Precinct 5 Command Station located at 17423 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77094, just off Barker Cypress. The academy runs through December 10 and is completely free to attend for qualified participants.
A Hands-On, Behind-the-Badge Experience
The academy provides an inside look at how the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable’s Office operates—from use-of-force policies and patrol procedures to firearms training and emergency vehicle operations. Participants (or “cadets,” as they’re called) will not only sit through informative classroom sessions but also engage in hands-on activities that simulate real-life scenarios faced by deputies in the field.
Class topics will include:
- Patrol operations and emergency response
- Legal concepts like probable cause and reasonable suspicion
- Detainment vs. arrest
- Officer safety and decision-making
- Use-of-force protocols
- Firearms safety
- A patrol car driving course
- Demonstrations of state-of-the-art law enforcement technology
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Who Can Apply
The Citizens Police Academy is open to all eligible Harris County residents age 21 or older who want to deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system and foster stronger community-law enforcement relationships. Background checks are required for all applicants, and certain eligibility criteria must be met:
- Be at least 21 years old with valid identification
A state-issued driver’s license or ID is required. - Have a clean recent criminal record
No felony convictions, no Class B misdemeanors (or above) in the past 3 years, no active warrants, and not be a registered sex offender. - Pass a background check
All applicants must submit to and successfully pass a criminal background screening. - Commit to full participation
Attendees are expected to make every effort to attend all 10 weekly sessions of the academy.
If you’ve ever found yourself questioning what you see on the news, wondering how officers make critical decisions, or simply wanting to know how you can support safer communities—this academy is built for you.
How to Register
Spots are limited and tend to fill quickly. To register or learn more, visit the official Citizens Police Academy page here.
For questions, contact Academy Coordinator Don Harvey at Donald.Harvey@cn5.hctx.net or 832-927-6829.
Whether you're a lifelong resident of Oak Park Trails or new to Harris County Precinct 5, this academy offers more than just education—it offers connection. As public safety continues to be a cornerstone of thriving communities, programs like this help bridge understanding between neighbors and those sworn to protect them.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates on law enforcement programs, safety initiatives, and community events happening right here in Oak Park Trails and across Harris County.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
