Citizens peek behind the curtain with TPD

Pike County residents got a behind-the-scenes look at local law enforcement during week one of the Troy Police Department’s (TPD) first-ever citizens’ police academy. 

The program kicked off Thursday night with introductions to department leadership and an inside look at 911 dispatch. TPD Chief Danny Barron said the academy is designed to build stronger relationships between officers and the community through transparency and education. 

“As we build these relationships with the community, we’ll have a voice through them,” Barron said. “[Participants] will be able to say that they’ve met our officers and know that they are good people.” 

Ashley English, a Pike County resident and academy participant, said she signed up to learn more for her eight-year-old son, who dreams of becoming a police officer. 

“When my son turned five or six, he really started getting into cops,” English said. “The older he gets, the more obsessed he gets. 

“I decided to jump into the academy and see what it’s like behind the scenes. He’s hard-set on being a cop or a professional baseball player, and I’ll talk with him about what I learn here.” 

Participants also toured TPD’s facility, getting a closer look at equipment and daily operations. During the tour, TPD Captain Matt Raiti highlighted upgrades to the department’s tasers. 

“Our tasers can now shoot 45 feet,” Raiti said. “They’ve come a long way because they only used to be able to shoot 21 feet. 

“Our tasers also now make a specific noise when someone is getting tased by a full charge. Before, when you shot it, two probes came out, and you had to judge based off the person’s reaction how much of a charge they were getting hit with.” 

English said her appreciation for law enforcement grew after just one session. 

“I’ve always had respect for the police,” English said. “[The academy] gives you a greater appreciation and respect for those that get up and spend so much time away from their family.” 

Barron said the next session will focus on patrol and corrections. While applications for this academy are closed, Barron said more sessions may be offered in the future.