For Hometown News
PORT ST. LUCIE -- The Port St. Lucie Police Department is starting a new Citizens' Police Academy that will meet twice weekly from Jan. 22 to March 14 at police headquarters on Airoso Boulevard.
Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. and are taught by various members of the police department. The academy is for citizens who want to learn about how the department operates and does not lead to certification or employment as a police officer.
Citizens will be introduced to the various divisions within the department and will learn about the specialized work of both civilian and sworn staff. There will be Saturday field trips to the 911 call center and to the police firing range.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department recognizes that informed citizens are the best resource to reduce crime and the citizens' police academy is designed to give residents a new perspective on the need for strong relationships between law enforcement officials and the community.
There is no fee to attend the academy, but space is limited so early registration is encouraged.
Applications are available by contacting Thomas Andrew, volunteer coordinator, at (772) 344-4052.