Citizens Academy taking applications

Residents still have time to apply for a 12-week course designed to provide a glimpse into the Laguna Beach Police Department.

Police are accepting applications through Aug. 28 for the Citizens Academy, a program 12-week course intended to foster communication between police and residents, according to a news release.

The academy will meet from 6 to 9:30 p.m. for 12 consecutive Thursdays beginning Sept. 4. Graduation will take place in the 13th week.

Participants will learn about traffic enforcement, accident investigation, gangs, narcotics, neighborhood watch programs, crime prevention, crime scene investigation, police dog use and volunteer opportunities.

A tour of the local police facility and the Orange County Jail, as well as an introduction to the vehicles and equipment used by the department, will be included.

Academy members will be given the chance to shoot at the police firing range and participate in mock scenarios.

To apply, contact the Laguna Beach Police Department at (949) 497-0701. Applications may be mailed, faxed or emailed.

For more information, contact class assistant Ross Fallah [email protected] Cpl. Matt Meadows [email protected] (949) 497-0758.

—Bryce Alderton

Twitter: @AldertonBryce