The Southern Pines Police Department is offering enrollment in its 13th Citizens Police Academy, which will run Tuesdays from April 3 to May 15.

The program offers a unique opportunity to meet police officers, telecommunicators and support staff who serve and protect the Town of Southern Pines.

Classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the police department, 450 W. Pennsylvania Ave.

The intent of the Academy is twofold; first to give participants a “behind the scenes” look at how the department operates, and second, to build closer bonds with the community.

This 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.

Participants who meet the following criteria can attend:

• Minimum age of 16 years

• Resident of Southern Pines or Southern Pines Business Owner

• No Felony convictions

• No misdemeanor convictions within 1 year of application

• No pending criminal charges

The requirements listed above may be waived or modified upon review and approval of the Chief of Police. A criminal background check will be completed on each applicant prior to acceptance into the academy.

Applications are available at the police department or download it online at www.southernpines.net/police.

Applications can be returned to the police department or mailed to the department at: P.O. Box 330 Southern Pines, N.C. 28388 attention Bob Temme.

For more information, contact:

Bob Temme, Community Services Coordinator, Southern Pines Police Department (910) 692-2732 ext. 2852