Anyone who has recently questioned the role of a police officerin the death of Michael McKinney will have a chance to learn whatit's like to be an officer.
The Citizen's Police Academy will teach participants about thedifferent aspects of police work through a combination of hands-onexperience and classroom instruction.
"The purpose of the program is to let the average citizen knowand understand how the police work," Lt. Fonda King said.
The class will offer discussions on taking evidence, policepatrol, investigation techniques, SWAT activities, the history ofthe police force and crime prevention.
"The program will include every facet of police work," Capt.Charles Hensley said.
The program lasts twelve weeks and allows participants toexperience the responsibilities that police officers faceeveryday.
"I'd like for people to come and see what we see," said Hensley."I want to expose them to issues that they have never even heardof."
The program not only provides an educational experience to thoseinterested in a career in criminal justice, but it also gives a newinsight to ordinary citizens, King said.
"The program is aimed at increasing the understanding andrespect between citizens and the police force," King said. "We hopethat it will create a type of support system."
King said the program may help students concerned about thedeath of Michael McKinney understand what happened.
"There are a lot of opinions regarding that incident," Kingsaid. "I'd like students to get involved with this program and seehow and why things like that can happen."
Hensley also said he believes that the program will bebeneficial in helping the students understand the McKinneysituation.
"I'd like for them to see how we are trained in certainsituations," Hensley said. "To understand what happens and how fastyou can get killed, and why officers have to be so cautious."
The program begins Feb. 3 and runs through April 27.Applications are due by Jan. 20 to City Hall. Applicants must be 18in order to apply.
"Almost everyone who goes through this experience comes outcompletely wide-eyed because they get to see what we actually doand what we have to deal with," Hensley said.
Sessions are held on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
"I encourage everyone to try to get involved," said King. "It'sa great learning experience and we need to build thatunderstanding, because the police force needs the citizens as muchas the citizens need the police force."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
