Founded in 1861, the Metropolitan Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency for the District of Columbia. It is one of the largest local police agencies in the United States. The department maintains a citizens police academy that provides training programs related to laws, firearms instruction, defensive tactics, first aid, patrol procedures and investigations. The Metropolitan Police Department conducts periodic citizen surveys and organizes various neighborhood and vacation watch programs. It has a community relations division that enhances partnership, communication, education and crime prevention throughout the community. Located in Washington, D.C., the Metropolitan Police Department also operates various specialized units, including arrest and criminal history, sexual assault, youth investigations, domestic violence, and financial crimes and fraud.