Stay tuned for the next “Partners In Policing” (PIP) class.  This program is open to all Torrance residents, people that work in Torrance, and anyone else that has affiliations with the City (i.e. people that attend school in Torrance, are members of a church in Torrance, members of civic organizations based in Torrance such as Kiwanis, Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, etc).  Must be 18 or older. Registration for this class fills up quickly.

“Partners In Policing” is a Community Awareness Program designed to educate and engage the community through our closest connections, including Neighborhood Watch members, community members, and business organizations.  This program offers participants a unique opportunity to “walk in the shoes of an officer,” engaging in hands-on exercises that cover various aspects of police work, including the duties, services, and responsibilities of the Torrance Police Department.

Participants will interact with a diverse range of officers and professional staff, including Detectives, SWAT team members, Forensic Identification Specialists, K-9 handlers, Drone Operators, Motors, and other specialized units.  This immersive experience allows community members to gain a comprehensive understanding of the police function and the complexities involved in law enforcement.

Since its inception, the program has successfully graduated 44 classes, with over a thousand community members completing the program.  Participants typically attend 10-12 sessions, covering topics from police academy training to the apprehension and prosecution of criminals.  They not only learn about the rationale behind various police procedures but also experience training scenarios firsthand.

Through these interactions, the program has significantly strengthened the partnership between the community and the police department, providing valuable insights and fostering a collaborative environment.  The “Partners In Policing” program is open to all community members and local organizations, promoting a deeper understanding of law enforcement and building a foundation for a safer, more connected community.

Teens and Policing 

The Torrance Police Department, in partnership with the Torrance Unified School District, has an exciting and innovative program for select juniors and seniors attending one of the TUSD High Schools.  “Teens and Policing” (TAP) is a 12-week program held at the Torrance Police Department one night of the week from 6-8 PM.  This program is offered once per semester (Fall and Spring), and students earn school credits upon successful completion of the program.   Students are selected by their counselor. 

The sessions are taught by police officers assigned to various divisions and details within the Department.  Students will receive an inside look into law enforcement and experience hands-on exercises relating to the duties, service and responsibilities of policing.

Interactions between students and police will strengthen relationships and build partnerships toward the future as participants become young adults.  They will meet the Chief of Police, take a tour of the station, witness demonstrations from the SWAT team and K-9 unit, hear from the DUI team, Gang Detail, Detectives, and other specialty units.  The students will have the unique opportunity to see and do things that only police officers get to experience.

Through this new and exciting program, students will gain a better understanding of a public service oriented career, which they may choose to pursue.