Want to learn about the role of police officers? What is CSI (Crime Scene Investigation)? How about having the opportunity to ride-along with a police officer while patrolling Seattle streets and neighborhoods?

The Seattle Police Department is now taking applications for the fall Community Police Academy to begin Thursday, September 17, 2009. Classes are held once a week for 10 weeks from 5:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.

The Community Police Academy is designed to provide Seattle residents an opportunity to learn first hand about how the Seattle Police Department works. Classes focus on patrol operations and procedures, the Office of Professional Accountability (OPA), the criminal justice process, crimes against persons/property, bias crimes, narcotics, SWAT, CSI, use of force, officer safety and defensive tactics, firearms/mock scenes, domestic violence, elder abuse, arson/bomb, traffic, K-9, and arrest procedures, along with criminal law. Opportunities include ride-alongs with patrol officers. Graduates benefit from the facts and best practices of policing, and receive a program certificate upon completion of the course.

Space is limited, so all are encouraged to apply early. The deadline to submit your application is Friday, July 10, 2009. To apply, go to: http://www.seattle.gov/police/programs/policeacademy/default.htm or call 206-684-8672 for more information.