Mauldin Residents Go Behind the Badge in Local Academy
January 28, 2026
The Mauldin Police Department has officially launched the ninth session of its Citizen’s Police Academy, providing a select group of community members with a transparent look into the world of law enforcement. The eight-week program, which began in mid-January, is designed to bridge the gap between officers and the residents they serve through immersive, hands-on education.
Meeting every Wednesday evening at the police headquarters on East Butler Road, participants transition from passive observers to active learners. The curriculum covers a wide spectrum of police work, ranging from the technicalities of crime scene investigation and fingerprint recovery to the complexities of courtroom procedures and traffic enforcement.
A primary highlight of the program is the use of high-tech training tools. Attendees utilize virtual reality headsets and a sophisticated use-of-force simulator to experience the high-pressure environments officers face daily. These scenarios require participants to make split-second decisions, offering a unique perspective on the mental and emotional demands of the profession.
Leading the initiative is Lieutenant Daniel Turner, who emphasizes that the goal of the academy is to foster mutual understanding. By explaining the reasoning behind specific police tactics and decisions, the department hopes to build a foundation of trust that extends back into local neighborhoods.
While the current session is already underway and scheduled to conclude with a graduation ceremony on March 4, the program remains a cornerstone of Mauldin’s community outreach. Residents who are at least 21 years old and live in Greenville County are encouraged to look for future application windows to participate in this deep dive into public safety.
The academy serves as an educational resource rather than a certification course, ensuring that graduates walk away not with arrest powers, but with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and responsibilities shared by the Mauldin Police Department.
