TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — Residents in Troy will soon get a behind-the-scenes look at how their local police department operates. 

The Troy Police Department (TPD) is launching its first citizen’s police academy, a six-week program designed to give community members a better understanding of law enforcement operations. Police Chief Danny Barron said the goal of the academy is to increase transparency and strengthen relationships with the public. 

“We want to be as transparent as we can,” Barron said. “We want our citizens to understand what we do and why we do the things we sometimes do.

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“I think in doing that, it helps our relationship with the citizens in our community.” 

The academy will teach participants about the different divisions within the department. Barron said several officers will speak during the sessions, including those from crime scene investigations, special operations and narcotics. 

Paige Ray is the Television Production Coordinator at Troy University. Ray comes from a law enforcement background and plans to attend the academy to gain a better understanding of how police operate behind the scenes.

“Being a journalist, I’ve gone to countless crime scenes,” Ray said. “I’ve talked to several members of law enforcement, but the chance to see what they do behind the scenes is going to give me a better appreciation for the job.” 

“Both on a personal level and then also teaching students how to interact with officers. This is an event that, I think, and hope will benefit me both personally and professionally.” 

At the end of the academy, participants will be tested using the Troy University Police Department’s firearms training simulator. The system uses a 180-degree screen to place participants in simulated real-life scenarios where they must make decisions while wearing a gun belt. 

“It puts people through real-life scenarios,” Barron said. “They’ll have to make real decisions, and it puts a little bit of stress on them, but it’s safe and in a controlled environment.” 

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The academy will begin March 26 at the Troy Municipal Courtroom. Sessions will be held every Thursday at six p.m. and will last about two hours through April 30. 

Applications for the academy are currently full, but Barron said the department plans to offer additional sessions in the future.