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Maine Criminal Justice Academy

Training Maine's Law Enforcement and Corrections Officers

Vassalboro, Maine Professional Standards Excellence in Training

About the Academy

The Maine Criminal Justice Academy (MCJA) is the official training institution for law enforcement and corrections officers in the state of Maine. Established by legislative mandate in 1972, the Academy is responsible for setting and maintaining professional standards through comprehensive training programs.

Located at 15 Oak Grove Road in Vassalboro, Maine, the Academy serves as the central hub for basic and advanced training for all law enforcement and corrections personnel throughout the state.

Training Programs

Basic Law Enforcement Training Program

18-Week Residential Program
  • Comprehensive academic curriculum
  • Chain of command structure
  • Lifetime fitness training
  • Report writing and documentation
  • Community policing strategies
  • Effective communications
  • Problem-solving techniques
  • Ethics and professional conduct

The BLETP is a residential program where cadets stay at the Academy Monday through Friday, with weekends off to return home. Two classes are offered annually, starting in January and August.

Basic Corrections Training Program

5-Week, 200-Hour Program
  • Recently redesigned curriculum
  • Addresses changes in correctional facilities
  • Focus on inmate safety and security
  • De-escalation techniques
  • Crisis intervention
  • Correctional law and procedures
  • Professional standards

The BCTP provides essential training for corrections officers working in county and state facilities throughout Maine, ensuring they have the skills needed to maintain safe and secure environments.

In-Service Training

Continuing Professional Development
  • Supervisor and Leadership Development
  • Executive Development
  • New Chiefs/Sheriffs Seminar
  • Intelligence Gathering
  • Interview and Interrogation
  • Police Photography
  • Evidence Collection
  • Regional and online training options

In-service training is delivered both at the Academy in Vassalboro and regionally throughout the state, in partnership with Dirigo Safety and Police1 online training platforms.

Law Enforcement Pre-Service (LEPS)

Three-Phase Program
  • Phase 1: 40-hour online curriculum
  • Phase 2: 80-hour classroom instruction
  • Phase 3: 80-hour field supervision

The LEPS program is designed for individuals seeking to enter law enforcement prior to being hired by an agency. This program provides foundational knowledge and skills that prepare candidates for basic law enforcement duties.

Academy Leadership and Mission

The Academy is led by Director Jack Peck, who oversees a comprehensive mission focused on:

  • Delivering high-quality basic training programs
  • Providing ongoing professional development
  • Ensuring training is accessible regionally and online
  • Handling legislative issues related to law enforcement training
  • Managing license and decertification processes with the MCJA Board
  • Engaging with communities to enhance training effectiveness

Historical Development

1972

Municipal and County Law Enforcement

The Maine Legislature mandated the Academy to set training standards for Municipal and County Law Enforcement Officers.

1978

Corrections Officers

Training standards were established for Corrections Officers throughout the state.

1989

Pre-Service Training

The Board of Trustees established pre-service training standards for law enforcement candidates.

Contact the Academy

Location

Maine Criminal Justice Academy
15 Oak Grove Road
Vassalboro, Maine 04989

Phone & Fax

Phone: (207) 877-8000
Fax: (207) 877-8027

Website

www.maine.gov/dps/mcja

Additional Resources

For more information about the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, including upcoming classes, forms, and detailed program information, visit the official MCJA website.

Visit MCJA Website Application Process

Ready to Begin Your Law Enforcement Career?

The Bar Harbor Police Department is looking for dedicated individuals who want to make a difference in our community. Join our team and receive top-tier training at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.

Apply Now Contact Us