There are still slots available in the Southern Pines Police Department Citizens Police Academy that runs from May 18 through June 29.

Classes will be held on Wednesday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Southern Pines Police Department located at 450 W. Pennsylvania Ave.

Participants must meet the following criteria: minimum age of 16, resident of Southern Pines or Southern Pines business owner, no felony convictions, no misdemeanor convictions within 1 year of application and no pending criminal charges.

The intent of the academy is twofold, according to a press release. First, to give participants a “behind the scenes” look at how the department operates, and second, to build closer bonds with the community.

The program does not train citizens to become police officers but will give those students who are considering a career in law enforcement an opportunity to see what police work is all about.

Highlights of the program include demonstrations by the K9 Unit and Special Teams, as well as Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) techniques. Throughout the program, students will process a mock crime scene and present their case to an independent panel for review and the issuance of a simulated arrest warrant.

Class participants will be afforded the opportunity to ride with an officer while on patrol and will have the opportunity throughout the program to ask questions, voice concerns and learn more about the law enforcement profession.

Pick up an application at the Southern Pines Police Department or log on to www.southernpines.net/police, download the application and bring it to the police department. You can also mail your application to the Southern Pines Police Department at P.O. Box 330 Southern Pines, N.C. 28388.

For more information, contact Bob Temme, Community Services Coordinator Southern Pines Police Department, at (910) 692-2732 extension 2852.