Lockport Citizen's Police Academy Starts September

LOCKPORT, IL — Lockport citizens will have a chance to get a look into their town's police service at Citizen's Police Academy. The academy's purpose is to help citizens make informed judgements about police departments and operations.

By running the academy, police hope to help citizens understand police practices and procedures, while dispelling "suspicions and misconceptions," a release from the department says.

"The safety and security of our community depends on the active cooperation and participation of all its citizens. It is hoped that the graduates of this program will be motivated to continue as active partners in identifying crime and safety issues within the community and working toward solutions."

For 13 weeks starting September, the course will run from 6 to 9 p.m. every Monday. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Each week, Citizen Police Cadets will learn about a different topic like:

• Officer safety/survival skills
• Traffic stop scenarios
• Role of the courts
• Law (criminal/traffic)
• Shoot/don't shoot hands on scenarios

To apply, go to the Lockport Police website or go to the police department.

For more information, call the Crime Prevention Unit at 815-838-2132 or email Officer Jeren Szmergalski at jszmergalski@lockportpolice.info.

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