Citizen Police Academy

Introducing the Hanover Park Police Department’s Citizen Police Academy:

Bridging Communities through Understanding

In a world where the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve is more critical than ever, the Hanover Park Police Department is taking proactive steps to foster understanding, trust, and collaboration. We are proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Hanover Park Police Department Citizen Police Academy, scheduled to commence this September.

The Hanover Park Citizen Police Academy represents an innovative approach to community policing, aimed at building stronger connections between our officers and the diverse residents of our community. This academy offers an exclusive opportunity for Hanover Park residents to gain valuable insight into the daily operations, procedures, and challenges faced by our dedicated law enforcement professionals.

What is the Citizen Police Academy?

The Citizen Police Academy is an immersive educational program designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of law enforcement practices, protocols, and principles. Throughout the academy, participants will engage in a series of interactive sessions, discussions, and hands-on activities led by experienced members of the Hanover Park Police Department.

The Citizen Police Academy will be a 10-week program. Participants will be required to attend once a week in the evening from 6:30PM to 9:00PM. The the next class will occur in Fall of 2026 with dates to be announced.  Day of the week will be announced on the Hanover Park Police Department Facebook page during open enrollment. 

What to Expect

During the course of the academy, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about the various divisions within the Hanover Park Police Department, including patrol, investigations, canine unit, drone unit, community policing, and more.

• Gain insight into law enforcement tactics, procedures, and decision-making processes.

• Participate in scenario-based training exercises to better understand the complexities of police work.

• Explore topics such as use of force, crisis intervention, and crime prevention strategies.

• Interact directly with Hanover Park police officers and command staff, fostering open dialogue and mutual understanding.

Who Can Participate?

The Hanover Park Police Department Citizen Police Academy is open to all residents of Hanover Park and persons that are employed by a Hanover Park based business aged 18 and above who are interested in learning more about law enforcement and are committed to building positive relationships with the police department. No prior experience or background in law enforcement is required.

How to Apply

Applications for the Hanover Park Police Department’s Citizen Police Academy will open on June 1st, 2026, and will be accepted until August 31st, 2026. Interested individuals can obtain an application form from the Hanover Park Police Department website or by visiting the department in person. Spaces are limited, so early application is encouraged.

Apply Here

Building Bridges, Fostering Trust

At the Hanover Park Police Department, we recognize the importance of community engagement and collaboration in promoting public safety and well-being. Through initiatives such as the Citizen Police Academy, we are committed to building bridges between law enforcement and the communities we serve, fostering trust, transparency, and mutual respect.

We invite all interested residents of Hanover Park to join us in this exciting endeavor as we work together to create a safer, stronger, and more connected community. Together, we can make a difference.

For more information about the Hanover Park Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy, contact Lt. Hendry at 630.823.5549.

Lets embark on this journey together towards a safer and more united community.