SEDONA, Ariz. – The city invites residents and members of the local business community to apply for the 2026 spring Community Police Academy, a free program designed to experience firsthand engagement with the Sedona Police Department (SPD), have a better understanding of the department’s role within the community and foster a collaborative relationship with residents.
Beginning May 6, 2026, this program will be held every Wednesday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. for eight weeks. SPD personnel will have direct interaction with community members to better understand what they value and gain perspective of community goals.
The course curriculum includes:
- Patrol procedures
- Crime scene investigations (fingerprinting and DNA collection)
- Traffic control (DUI, motorcycle detail and collision)
- Firearms
- Use of force
- Investigations
- Specialty assignments: K-9, Narcotics Detective (PANT), School Resource Officer, Community Service Officer and Community Service Aid positions
- Volunteers
- Explorer Program
- Police Communication
Applicants must be 18 years of age and must be either a city of Sedona resident or part of the local business community. Applications are due by April 20, 2026. Seats are limited to 15 individuals. The program will be held primarily at The Hub, located at 525-B, Posse Grounds Dr. There will also be an optional Range Day scheduled on May 23, 2026 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the SPD Firearms Training Facility led by officers Steve Wiiladsen and Jesse Santos. During Range Day, participants will learn about firearms, building clearing and less lethal devices.
To apply, fill out the application at www.sedonaaz.gov/policeacademy and return to SPD Commander Heather Penner at hpenner@sedonaaz.gov or drop it off at the SPD Lobby, located at 102 Roadrunner Dr.