Explore Policing: Community and Youth Programs

Partners in Policing

PIP Class #47 Currently in Session!

The Partners in Policing (PIP) program is a dynamic 9-week community awareness course that provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Torrance Police Department. Participants build stronger connections with law enforcement professionals while gaining firsthand insight into police operations, training, and public safety strategy.

Course Details

  • When: Thursday evenings, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Where: Torrance Police Station
  • Who Can Apply: Torrance residents, individuals who work in Torrance, or those with ties to the city
  • Eligibility: Must be 18 years or older and pass a Live Scan / fingerprint based background check
  • Class Size: Approximately 25 participants

What to Expect

The PIP program offers a rare opportunity to "walk in the shoes of an officer." Participants engage in hands-on exercises and interactive sessions covering various areas of law enforcement, including:

  • Patrol procedures and traffic enforcement
  • Investigations and detective work
  • SWAT demonstrations
  • Forensics and evidence collection
  • K-9 and drone operations
  • DUI and gang enforcement
  • Police academy training scenarios

You’ll meet officers and professional staff from across the department, ask questions, and gain a well-rounded understanding of the responsibilities, challenges, and decision-making involved in modern policing.

Since its inception, the program has graduated 44 classes and over 1,000 community members. Each session promotes meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding between law enforcement and the community we serve.

Teens and Policing (TAP)

A Partnership Between TPD and Torrance Unified School District

The Teens and Policing (TAP) program is a 12-week educational experience for select high school juniors and seniors enrolled in the Torrance Unified School District. Held once per semester (Fall and Spring), the program introduces students to careers in public safety through hands-on learning and direct interaction with law enforcement professionals.

Program Details

  • When: One evening per week, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Where: Torrance Police Department
  • Who: Juniors and seniors selected by their school counselors
  • Credit: Students earn school credit upon successful completion

Program Highlights

Students are introduced to many aspects of policing and public safety, including:

  • A tour of the police station
  • Meet-and-greet with the Chief of Police
  • Demonstrations from SWAT and K-9 units
  • Sessions with Detectives, Motors, DUI Team, and Gang Detail
  • Hands-on scenarios and training exercises

Led by officers from across the department, TAP strengthens relationships between youth and law enforcement, fosters leadership, and offers a real-world glimpse into the responsibilities of serving the community. Students leave with a deeper understanding of public service and a potential career path to pursue.

For information on our PIP and TAP programs, please reach out to our Community Affairs team at CommunityAffairs@TorranceCA.gov.

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