The Missouri State Highway Patrol will host a program beginning in September to provide personal interaction between community citizens and the patrol.
The patrol is seeking 18 responsible citizens, community leaders, professional and business associates who are willing to commit to the Community Alliance Program, which is designed for those possessing a strong interest in learning about the patrol’s purpose and role within the law enforcement community. The program will begin Sept. 11 and conclude in late October with an awards ceremony.
Classes will meet from 6:30 until 9 on six consecutive Tuesday evenings in the meeting room at Troop G headquarters in Willow Springs. Successful completion of the program will require attendance at each Tuesday evening session.
The curriculum will familiarize participants with many patrol policies and procedures utilizing teaching techniques similar to those experienced by troopers attending the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy in Jefferson City. Many evenings will include activities and role-playing exercises that provide participants practical experience.
The patrol is accepting applications for the program through Aug. 17. There is no cost to participate in the program. Selection of 18 participants will be based upon an evaluation of an application form and a criminal record check. Application forms are available by calling Troop G headquarters at 417-469-3121.
The tentative program curriculum:
• Sept. 11 – History of the patrol, “Tools of the Trade”
• Sept. 18 – “Glorified Traffic Cops?” Traffic Enforcement
• Sept. 25 – Aircraft, SWAT, Canine, Pursuits, Accident Reconstruction. “Real Stories of the Highway Patrol.”
Oct. 2 – Use of Force, Search and Seizure, Drugs. “Gee, Trooper, I don’t know where that $2 million came from.”
Oct. 9 – Name 46 reasons why not to mess with a Trooper. “Glock”
Oct. 16 – “How much alcohol is too much?”
Oct. 23 – Awards Ceremony