Insider Access: How to Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Palm Bay Police Department
The Palm Bay Police Department's first-ever Citizens Academy starts February 3rd. We detail the eight-week curriculum, who should apply, and the mandatory notarized forms required for submission.
Palm Bay, FL – In a historic first for the city, the Palm Bay Police Department (PBPD) is inviting residents to apply for its inaugural Basic Citizens Academy. This program is designed to foster stronger working relationships between the city and its citizens through education and transparency.
The eight-week academy is scheduled to begin Monday, February 3rd and will be held every Tuesday night from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
What Citizens Will Learn and Experience
The program’s goal is to inform citizens by exploring the duties of various divisions and offering unique demonstrations. The academy is structured to provide an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at modern policing, moving from classroom theory to tactical demonstrations.
Curriculum Overview
Participants will explore the duties of several key divisions, organized to cover the full spectrum of police work:
Patrol & Enforcement: Traffic Enforcement, DUI Enforcement, and Street Crimes.
Major Investigations: Major Case, Sex Crimes & Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, and Gangs.
Specialized Tactics: SWAT Team, K9 Operations, and Crisis Negotiation scenarios.
Operations & Support: Communications Division, Intelligence Overview, and Officer Wellness.
Hands-On Experience
The program goes beyond lectures, including special activities such as:
Criminal Investigations and DUI Investigations overviews
Specialty Unit Overviews and SWAT & K9 Demonstrations
Tour of the PBPD facility
Graduation Ceremony upon completion
Who Can Attend and Who Should Apply
The Basic Citizens Academy is open to all Palm Bay residents who are age 18 or older and possess a valid Driver’s License. However, the program is about more than just satisfying curiosity.
The department’s stated goal is that “informed citizens help to create stronger working relationships between the city and its citizens.” By explicitly inviting community leaders and influencers, the PBPD aims to build a network of residents who can bridge the gap between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve.
Encouraged Applicants
The PBPD explicitly encourages several groups to apply, recognizing their vital role in community information flow and leadership:
Aspiring Public Servants
Community Facebook Group Moderators
Community Leaders
The Background Check Requirement
Eligibility is contingent upon passing a Palm Bay Police Department background check. This process is thorough, including state and national criminal history records checks, driver’s license checks, and reference checks. The PBPD notes that arrests do not automatically disqualify an applicant, but each situation is processed on a case-by-case basis.
The Application Process and Mandatory Forms
The process begins with an online application through the secure Guardian Alliance Technologies cloud-based software. The department stresses the critical importance of providing complete, accurate, and honest information, as any deliberate misstatement or omission will result in immediate disqualification.
Required Notarized Forms
In addition to the main application, two notarized forms must be completed and submitted to finalize the application:
Release of Liability Waiver
Photography and Video Release Form
Both the Release of Liability Waiver and the Photography and Video Release Form need to be downloaded, filled out, notarized, and then sent to cpa@palmbaypoliceacademy.pbfl.org.
Pro Tip: Don’t let the notary requirement slow you down. Most local banks, shipping centers (like The UPS Store), and postal service centers in Palm Bay offer notary services.
Applying for the Citizens Academy
Interested residents can find the application documents and instructions on the City of Palm Bay’s website here: https://www.palmbayfl.gov/government/city-departments-f-to-z/police/recruitment/police-academy. Residents can also access the application link directly on the Police Department news page, or scan the QR code found on the official flyer.
While maybe it will lead to a citizen advisory board