Royal Oak Taking Citizens Police Academy Applications

ROYAL OAK, MI — The Royal Oak Police Department is bringing back its popular citizens police academy, a seven-week course that gives participants unique insight into local law enforcement.

Applications are now being taken for the classes that begin on Oct. 5, and will be held on consecutive Wednesdays for seven weeks. The classes meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Royal Oak Police Station, 221 E Third St., and last approximately three hours.

Open only to residents of Royal Oak, attendees get an insider's look at the internal operations and challenges of the police department.

You must be 18 years of age or older to attend the academy. All potential applicants are screened before they are accepted. You will be notified no later than Sept. 30 if you have been admitted. Apply here.Questions regarding the academy should be directed to Lt. Al Carter at albertc@romi.gov.

Here's what Spring 2016 Citizens Police Academy graduates had to say:

• "The chief did a great job with both the message and time he spent to answer questions." — Patricia Donohue
• "Thank you for hosting the academy. I learned a lot and had fun!" — Douglas Ryan
• "I had no idea that ROPD fields 49,000 calls a year. I learned a lot." — Judy Rochon
• "The armored SWAT vehicle overview and usage added a touch of reality to this program." — Akio Miyamoa
• "Wow! You could hear a pin drop while Sgt. Swiatakowski was speaking [about a murder case.] He was nothing short of riveting." — Frank Quinn
• "This is high on my list of 'best classes ever.' Very informative. Truly RoyalOak's 'finest' " — Jim Hooks

Photo: City of Royal Oak