The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Community Alliance Program starts September 6th at Troop D Headquarters in Springfield. KSMU’s Michele Skalicky explains what the program is.
The Community Alliance Program starts September 6th and meets on Tuesday nights for five consecutive weeks. Sergeant Jason Pace is spokesperson for the Highway Patrol.
"It is designed to allow the public to learn more about the Patrol's purpose and the role within the law enforcement community, but it's also an opportunity for the Patrol to learn how we can better serve the needs of the public," he said.
Classes like these are important, he said, especially in light of the racial tensions in recent months in the U.S. involving law enforcement.
According to Pace, participants will learn about things like MHP policies and procedures, traffic stops, crash investigations, marine operations and more.
"And just many other aspects of the Patrol to give citizens a better understanding of what we do on a daily basis, he said.
The Community Alliance Program is limited to 25 participants who fill out an application and undergo a background check. They’re chosen, Pace said, on a first come, first served basis.
According to Pace, the program is rotated throughout Troop D, which encompasses 18 counties in southwest Missouri, so it’s not always held in Springfield.
"This is a rare opportunity for those that would have an interest, and so we're seeking, of course, citizens, community leaders, students, professional business associates--we have people of all ages," he said.
Classes will meet at the Troop D Headquarters on E. Kearney. Applications are due by August 31st. For more information, 895-6868.
