The Gretna Police Department Training Academy is one of 19 academies in the state of Louisiana certified by the Peace Officers Standards and Training Council (POST). The Academy operates under the direction of Captain Charles M. Whitmer who was appointed Director of Training by Chief B. H. Miller, Jr. in January of 1985. The Academy conducts basic training for new recruits as well as in-service training for members of the department and outside agencies. It is the goal of the academy to provide officers with top-notch training, enabling them to perform the duties of a law enforcement officer in a professional manner.


Graduating Class

These are some of the subjects taught during basic training:

  • Criminal law, constitutional law and motor vehicle laws
  • Firearms, including the revolver, semiautomatic pistol and shotgun
  • Arrest control techniques
  • Accident investigation and reporting
  • Report writing
  • Criminal investigation techniques and courtroom testimony
  • First Responder and CPR
  • Radio procedures
  • DUI enforcement and drug enforcement
  • Physical fitness training

This is only a sampling of courses taught to recruits during basic training. Recruits receive over 550 hours of training prior to graduation from the Academy. Upon graduation from the Academy, officers are certified as law enforcement officers by the LA Peace Officer Standards and Training Council.


Hand to Hand Training

Marksmanship and Firearm Training

 

Training is conducted at the Gretna Police Complex located at 200 Fifth Street in Gretna. Classes are conducted in a state-of-the-art classroom added in 1997. The classroom is equipped with top-of-the-line audio, video and computer equipment.


Advanced Drivers Training

The Academy normally provides one basic training class per year from April through October. This is geared for recruits with full-time employment seeking to become Reserve Officers. Classes are held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm. - 10pm. and on Saturdays from 8am. - 4pm. The Gretna Police Department does provide full-time academies (Monday through Friday 8am. - 5pm.) as the need is dictated by local law enforcement agencies.