FCPD Celebrates 40th Anniversary Of Auxiliary Police Officer Program

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Fairfax, VA— Since its inception four decades ago, FCPD’s Auxiliary Police Officer (APO) program has become an integral part of our department, strengthening the efforts of our career police officers and bolstering community safety in immeasurable ways. FCPD is reflecting on the incredible contributions and impact these dedicated volunteers have made over the years.

These devoted volunteers undergo rigorous training to assist and enhance the work of our full-time officers. Their commitment to public safety is evident in their active involvement in patrolling neighborhoods, supporting community events, and ensuring smooth traffic flow. The presence of our APOs provides an added layer of security and fosters a strong sense of trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community.

What We Do

  • Augment patrol officers.
  • Cover officers on traffic stops/traffic control at crash scenes/crime scene security.
  • Assist during community events.
  • Assist with DWI checkpoint events.
  • May be assigned to various police units such as animal control, court liaison, and criminal investigations.

Fairfax County APOs have logged over 1.3 million volunteer hours since their start in 1983. The program has 47 active auxiliaries with another 11 in the current APO academy. Last year, APOs logged nearly 20,000 volunteer hours assisting the police department and with community events. As an APO, officers must provide 24 hours of service per month, which equals 288 hours per year.

About the Auxiliary Police Officer Academy

Once accepted into the Academy, the APO Academy class meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Classes are taught by full-time Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy instructors. The Academy lasts approximately 6 months and includes weekends for driver training, weapons training, and on-the-street traffic control.

Interested in becoming an Auxiliary Police Officer or want to learn more about the program? Please visit Auxiliary Police Officer | Police (fairfaxcounty.gov)

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.