SEBASTIAN — The Sebastian Police Department, for the ninth year, is conducting its Citizens Police Academy, a 12-week course offered free to area residents. The 2-hour classes begin Thursday, Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m., and will take place weekly at Sebastian Police Department Headquarters, 1201 Main St., and other selected locations.
The aim of the academy is to strengthen communication and foster a closer relationship between police and other citizens in the community.
“It is an opportunity for citizens to learn more about their local law enforcement, ask questions, and gain a more thorough understanding of the inner workings of the Sebastian Police Department,” SPD Communications Officer Steve Marcinik explained. “The Academy is also a means for participants and police personnel to share information and ideas about the police profession. The Academy promotes improved community/police relationships, enhanced cooperation and reduced stereotyping. Graduates of the Academy will enhance our city by being better informed citizens and better neighbors.”
Previous participants, he says, have come from Sebastian, Fellsmere, Vero Beach and even South Brevard County. They are typically high school age and older.
Residents under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and all applicants are subject to approval by the Chief of Police.
Complete Academy guidelines are available on the application form. Course presenters will include representatives from every department within the SPD, each explaining the primary function of her/his job.
Academy participants will also meet officers, agents and investigators from local, state and federal agencies, to better understand how various law enforcement agencies work together in a cooperative effort to protect citizens from criminal activity.
Each participant will have ample opportunity to ask questions.
Course activities and topics will include a tour of Sebastian Police Department headquarters; police officer recruiting, selection and training; court system and the hearing process; road patrol operations; traffic laws and enforcement; school resource programs; crime prevention techniques; criminal investigations and drug enforcement; crime scene investigation and evidence processing; use of force, defensive tactics and K-9 demonstration; Homeland Security issues; Indian River County jail tour; volunteer program; marine patrol; special response team and demonstration; code enforcement; and firearms.
Class size is limited to 30 participants, and residents who want to attend must complete an application and submit it as soon as possible. Applications are available at the Sebastian Police Department, City Hall, the north county library, Dunkin’ Donuts and Cumberland Farms.
Applications can also be downloaded from the police department website at www.sebastianpd.org.
For additional information, contact Marcinik at 772-589-5233 EXT. 8576 or smarcinik@cityofsebastian.org.