The Mauldin Police Department is now accepting applications for the 9th session of the Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA). The CPA is a free, 8-week program designed to connect with the citizens of Mauldin and help them better understand how the police work in their community.
Classes begin on Jan. 14, 2026 and meet every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Mauldin Police Department for a total of 8 weeks. Classes will conclude with graduation on March 4.
The CPA includes a mix of classroom learning and hands-on education, including training on the department’s use-of-force simulator and Virtual Reality (VR) headsets that immerse students in real-world scenarios.
The CPA also gives residents the opportunity to share concerns and get to know the officers who serve their community.
“My ultimate goal with the Citizens Police Academy is to put people in our shoes,” said Lt. Daniel Turner, who oversees the program. “I want people to understand our thought process and what leads us to the decisions that we make. Hopefully graduates will take that knowledge back to their neighborhoods and use it to enhance communication between citizens and police, which will ultimately help create a safer community for everyone.”
Topics covered will include:
- Uniform patrol operations
- Crime scene investigation
- Traffic enforcement
- Community policing/crime prevention
- Training
- Courtroom procedure
Participants must be at least 21 years of age, reside in Greenville County and undergo a criminal background check.
Interested applicants can obtain an application from the Mauldin Police Department at 5 E. Butler Rd or apply online here. Applications are due to Lt. Turner at the Mauldin Police Department by Jan. 9, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Please note: This Academy only provides an “inside look” at policing and offers no certification or arrest powers.
For more information, contact Lt. Turner at dturner@mauldinpolice.com.