Applications are now being accepted for this year’s Citizens Police Academy. The class begins Thursday, Sept. 22, but applications must be submitted by Sept. 12.
The sessions are free and have been offered by McMinnville Police Department since 2007. With space limited, enrollment is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
“The class usually fills up fast,” said Major Mike Lane. “We can only take about 20 so get those applications in as soon as possible.”
Each Thursday night at 6 p.m. beginning Sept. 22, classes will be offered. On the agenda for this session are defensive tactics, DUI enforcement, firearms, criminal investigation, narcotics investigation, and courtroom trial. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the firing range and a ride-along with a police officer during their regular shift. Classes will be Thursday nights with the one range day on a Saturday.
The seven-week course offers hands-on experience about the day-to-day activities associated with law enforcement in an effort to bridge the relationship gap between the police department and the citizens it serves. McMinnville Police Department officers are the instructors.
Lane says the academy is achieving what it was designed to do.
“The academy has become a main part of McMinnville Police Department’s community policing effort,” said Lane. “We have fun offering the classes and citizens have fun taking them. It has definitely bolstered the relationship between citizens of our community and the police.”
Applications may be picked up at McMinnville Police Department on Red Road, or by visiting the police department’s website. Visit www.mcminnvilletenn.com, click on “departments” and select “police.” On the police department’s site, click on “Citizens Police Academy.” Applications should be submitted to the Police Department on or before Sept. 12.
For more information, contact Lane at 473-3808.