Carbondale Police accepting applications for Citizens’ Police Academy

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) — The Carbondale Police Department is accepting applications for its free Citizens’ Police Academy, a program designed to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at local law enforcement.

The five-session academy will cover topics including police department operations, patrol tactics, traffic stops, investigations and crime scene procedures. Organizers say the program is intended to strengthen relationships between officers and the community while giving participants a better understanding of the challenges facing law enforcement.

Classes will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays beginning Sept. 17. Additional sessions are scheduled for Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29 and Nov. 12.

The academy is open to anyone interested in participating, although applicants must pass a background check.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. They can be completed online or picked up at the Carbondale Police Department, 501 S. Washington St.

Anyone with questions can contact Randy Mathis at the Carbondale Police Department.