Citizen Police Academy

The Kearney Police Department is now accepting applications for the 25th Citizen Police Academy.  The 9 sessions will be held on Monday evenings from 6 p.m. – 9p.m. beginning Monday, April 6, 2026 and concluding Monday, June 1, 2026. Topics covered will include Current trends in law enforcement, Criminal Investigation, Accident Investigation, Patrol Operations, Use of Force, and Special Operations. There will also be a tour of the Law Enforcement Center and the Buffalo County Jail, K9 and Drone presentations, and a graduation with a presentation from a professional in the field of law enforcement.

This is an interactive class that combines classroom and lecture along with hands on activities. Students will have the opportunity to investigate mock crime scenes and make mock traffic stops. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience our Virtra training simulator, a state of the art, video- based system used by law enforcement nationwide. The simulator places participants in realistic, scenario- based situations that officers may encounter, allowing them to see firsthand how quickly decisions must be made and how communication, judgement, and de-escalation play critical roles in policing. 

Participation in the scenarios is recommended, but optional.  Special consideration will be taken for those who would like to participate, but may be limited by physical disabilities. A ride along with an on-duty officer is optional. The class is free to accepted participants. 

Citizens interested must have no felony convictions, no convictions for crimes of violence or domestic violence, a valid driver’s license, and no drug convictions in the last 4 years.  Participants must be at least 18 years of age.  A background check will be conducted on all applicants and applicants will be notified if accepted into the Academy.

Applications are available at the front desk of the Kearney/Buffalo County Law Enforcement Center, 2025 Avenue A.  or on the City of Kearney webpage.  Applications are open until the class is full.  For further information, please contact Lt. Jason Koetters at (308) 233-5219 or email Lt. Jason Koetters.