Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – Fall classes are under way for students of all ages, but there’s at least one local class that’s still accepting applications for anyone over the age of 18 interested in learning more about public safety and the officers committed to keeping our community safe. The Presque Isle Police Department is once again offering its Citizens Academy, a course with classes held one night a week for approximately 10 weeks. Classes run about three hours.
“Classes begin Tuesday, Oct. 14. The course won’t be offered again until the fall of 2009,” said Sgt. Mark Barnes, the officer in charge of the informative program.
“The course will begin the Tuesday following the open house at the Public Safety Building. The open house is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 11,” said Barnes.
Each classes provides participants with an overview of various aspects of law enforcement, from tracking suspects and victims with the department’s K-9, Hunter; drug investigations and drug detection using the department’s K-9, Dozer; police forensics/crime scene investigation; OUI, speed and seatbelt details; unattended deaths; sexual assault and domestic violence cases; and more. Officers who specialize in the different topics will serve as class instructors.
Anyone who lives or works in Presque Isle is eligible to attend for free, but participants must be at least 18 years of age. There are no educational requirements, just a desire to learn more about the local department, how and why the staff do what they do. Upon finishing the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion and a better understanding of their local police department.
For more information or to register, contact Barnes at 764-4476 or e-mail mbarnes@pipd.us. Seating is limited, so early registration is recommended.
