f you’ve ever wanted to know more about how police departments work, Decatur Police are willing to teach you.

Sgt. Jennifer Ross, police spokeswoman, sent over a press release with details about the upcoming Citizens Police Academy.

More from Sgt. Ross:

The Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) is an exciting way to learn about police work and how the community can respond to emergencies.

Through a well-prepared curriculum, taught once a week for 8 weeks, students will learn about all aspects of police operations.

Academy participants will meet many of the men and women who serve in the Decatur Police Department as they explain the functions of patrol officers, investigators, and administrators.

Academy participants will also learn how officers are trained and how one can protect themselves against crime and hazards. Interesting demonstrations will illustrate the many skills and abilities police officers must have to effectively protect Decatur.

An important and exciting phase of the Academy is the opportunity to leave the classroom and view police work first hand by riding with patrol officers.

Applicants must submit to a limited background investigation by the Decatur Police Department that will include a check of criminal history and driving record. Individuals who do not meet the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Council standards will not be accepted into the CPA program.

Students must be a minimum of 21 years of age by the first day of class. Class space is limited, but a waiting list will be held for future classes should the demand exceed available space.

*Preference is given to city residents and business The Citizen’s Police Academy is an excellent class to take if you want to become informed about police procedures, crime prevention and personal safety. It also gives Decatur residents and those affiliated with Decatur an opportunity to develop working relationships with our Police Department staff.

If you are interested in completing an application for the September class please contact Sergeant Jennifer Ross at (678) 553-6613 or email her at [email protected].

THE TENTATIVE DATES OF THE 2013 CPA ARE THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 THRU THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013. CLASS TIMES ARE 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM. NO CLASS WILL BE HELD ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2013 (HALLOWEEN). DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2013

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