Members of the community can gain personal interaction with the Missouri State Highway Patrol at the seventh annual Community Alliance Program.
The patrol is seeking as many as 20 citizens, community leaders and professional associates who are interested in learning about the patrol’s purpose and role within law enforcement.
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 program will conclude with an awards ceremony.
Classes will meet from 6:30-9 p.m. on each of six consecutive Tuesday evenings beginning Sept. 3 at the meeting room at Troop G Headquarters in Willow Springs. Successful completion will require attendance at each Tuesday evening session. One absence will be allowed with prior approval from the program coordinator.
Among the topics for the program are:
––The history of the patrol: “Tools of the trade.”
––Traffic enforcement: “Glorified traffic cops?”
––Aircraft, SWAT, pursuits and accident reconstruction: “Real Stories of the Highway Patrol.”
––Use of force, search and seizure, drugs: “Gee, trooper, I don’t know where that $2 million came from.”
–– Name 46 reasons why not to mess with a trooper: “Glock.”
––“How much alcohol is too much?”
There is no cost. Applications are available through Troop G by calling 417-469-3121. The selection process will include evaluation of the application form and a criminal record check. The deadline is Aug. 5.