The Missoula Police Department is accepting applications for the Citizens Law Enforcement Academy to be held in January, 2018.

Police spokesman Travis Welsh describes the benefits of the program, now in its 20th year.

“We want to have good communication with our citizens,” Welsh said. “Anytime we can reach out and create a bridge, we are so excited to do that. The citizens academy is a chance for people to come in and ask questions and learn about the things we do and why we do them. It’s a great opportunity, and I would certainly encourage people to attend if they are able.”

Welsh outlined some of the divisions within the police department that attendees will learn about.

“Uniform patrol, investigations, special teams, school resource officers, crime scene investigators, canine programs, community service specialists, as well as our quality of life program,” he said. “There are also some planned hands-on activities that would include a ride-along with officers out on the street in their patrol car.”

The Citizens Law Enforcement Academy will meet on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a period of eight weeks beginning on January 10. Space is limited to only about 30 applicants. The deadline to apply is December 29.

To apply, click here.

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