In January 1992, the Missoula Police Department hosted its first Citizen Academy. This program was the concept of Chief Pete Lawrenson and was aimed at fostering a better understanding of Police Department operation by community members. With joint participation by the Missoula County Sheriff's Department we are able to offer a broad range of knowledge. Originally, twenty-five organizations such as the Senior Citizens Center, schools, etc., were invited to send a representative. Within a few years, word of mouth alone generated more requests to attend than we could handle.
Participants also receive firearms training and go to the range during one session.
To enhance the partnership between the Police Department and the citizens it serves, Chief Lawrenson established a Citizen Advisory Board in late 1998. This board is comprised of a cross-section of Missoula citizens representing most of the community groups and interests of Missoula. The Citizen Board, which serves in an advisory capacity only, will provide feedback on Police Department programs and issues as well as provide a forum for citizens to address community concerns. We welcome your comments. The comments area does not collect email addresses.