The Ocean City Police Department is accepting applications for the 2026 Citizens’ Police Academy. Join us to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the everyday life of a law enforcement officer.

OUR OBJECTIVE

The Ocean City Citizens’ Police Academy was organized in 2022 and offers citizens the opportunity to learn about the internal operations of the Ocean City Police Department. The overall objective of the Academy is to provide citizens with sound and accurate information about the Ocean City Police Department and the criminal justice process, so citizens are able to make informed decisions regarding issues/matters involving the police department and/or police activity. Participants will be able to share their experiences with family, friends, co-workers and their community to further improve and strengthen community-police relations.

COURSE CURRICULUM

Each week, a different unit or area of Ocean City Police Department is presented, such as: Community Policing Unit, Traffic Safety Unit, K9 Unit, Police Dispatch, IT Unit, Training Unit, Detectives, Administration, and Drone Unit. This year, we will be adding two new blocks of instruction on DWI and our Cape May County SWAT Team.

DETAILS

• Cost: All classes are free.
• Dates: Every Thursday from March 5 through May 7 in 2026.
• Graduation: May 7, 2026  
• Location: Classes will be held at the Ocean City Free Public Library (some sessions may be held at other locations such as the Ocean City Police Department).
• Eligibility: Classes are open to all Ocean City residents and business owners ages 18 or older.  

APPLICATION

Applications can be picked up in person at the Ocean City Police Department (835 Central Ave.) or downloaded here. Citizens’ Police Academy class size is limited. For more information, please email kricci@ocnj.us or call (609) 525-4252.

(This is not an application to become a police officer.)