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Notes: Alexandria Community Police Academy returns, offering residents inside look at local law enforcement

Good morning, Alexandria! Today is Sunday, June 29, the 180th day of 2025. There are 185 days left in the year. On this day in 1776, the Virginia state constitution was adopted, and Patrick Henry was made the state’s governor.

⛈️ Today’s weather: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92 degrees. Heat index values as high as 101 degrees. Calm wind becoming southwest around five mph in the afternoon. The chance of precipitation is 60%—new rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts are possible in thunderstorms.

Showers and thunderstorms are likely tonight before 5 a.m., then a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74 degrees. Calm wind. The chance of precipitation is 60%—new rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, except higher amounts are possible in thunderstorms.

🚨 You need to know

Alexandria’s Police Department is opening its doors to the community this fall with a free, nine-week Community Police Academy. Running from September 17 to November 12, the program offers residents and workers in Alexandria a unique opportunity to learn about law enforcement firsthand.

Sessions take place on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the APD Headquarters on Wheeler Avenue. Participants will get an inside look at various aspects of police work, including criminal investigations, traffic safety, and special operations.

The academy isn’t just about lectures – it also includes hands-on demonstrations. You’ll get to see a LIDAR speed safety demo and watch the K9 unit in action. Other exciting topics covered include hostage negotiations and firearms range demonstrations. For those who want to experience life on the beat, there’s an optional patrol ride-along.

To be eligible, you need to be at least 21 years old and either live or work in Alexandria. All participants will undergo a background check. The program concludes with a brief graduation ceremony on November 19.

If you’re interested in joining, you can apply through the Alexandria Police Department’s website. The deadline for applications is August 11, 2025. Got questions? Reach out to the Volunteer Office at [email protected].

APD Community Police Academy (via Alexandria Police Department)

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About the Author

  • Ryan Belmore is a journalist based in Alexandria, Virginia. He served as Publisher of ALXnow from March to October 2025. He can be reached at [email protected].