By Heather Bell
RADFORD – The Radford City Police Department is bringing back the popular Citizen Police Academy, a program designed to “allow citizens to gain a realistic view of law enforcement operations.”
“It is our hope that insight gained by participating in this program will be both informative and enjoyable,” the department said in its announcement of the program. “The main goal of the Citizen Police Academy is to build relationships with the citizens and create a community that is better informed about the reality of police work.”
Applications are currently being taken for the program. The academy runs for eight weeks, and classes are held once a week on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with the exception of one Saturday set aside for the firing range. Classes run from Sept. 6 through Oct. 25 with graduation on Nov. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Radford City Police Department
The curriculum includes K-9, Communications / E911 Center, Criminal Investigations, Patrol, SWAT, Community Engagement, and Firearms.
Applicants must meet the following qualification to be accepted: 18 years of age or older, pass a criminal history background check, not have participated in a similar program within the past six months.
Participants will be required to dress in proper attire. Jeans and T-shirts are not permitted except with the approval from the coordinator for certain classes.
Participants must follow all instructions by the instructor during the program. No interference with the performance of the instructor shall be permitted.
The program may be terminated by the coordinator at any time.
Participants are required to conduct themselves in a mature, professional manner at all times.
Participants shall not be armed.
Learn more and apply on-line at radfordcitypolice.org.