Still time to apply for Asheville Police Department’s Fall Citizens Police Academy

The Asheville Police Department invites residents to apply for the Fall semester of the Citizens Police Academy.

The Citizens Police Academy is a free course that teaches citizens about the philosophies, policies and guiding principles of law enforcement and the ethical conduct governing police services in the community. It gives citizens an opportunity to appreciate and better understand the problems and challenges facing law enforcement. Citizens will also be given time to offer comments, ideas and solutions.

Classes begin September 7 and will be held each Thursday for 14 consecutive weeks. Classes meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building in downtown Asheville (100 Court Plaza). Dinner is provided.

The course consists of basic classroom instruction, presentations and demonstrations of topics such as criminal investigations, constitutional and criminal law, use of force, departmental structure and defensive tactics. Participants will also be given the opportunity to ride along with an officer.

Those wishing to participate much apply and be accepted. You can download a copy of the application here. For more information on the academy please contact Officer Ryan Justus at 828-259-5834 or rjustus@ashevillenc.gov.