The following is a press release from Pierce County:

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its fall Community Academy program. The academy begins Sept. 26 and will meet each Thursday evening for 13 weeks.

This is the first time a session will be held in a north central Pierce County location. Anyone may apply. However, this location will be most convenient for those living in central or north Pierce County, Edgewood, and Brown’s Point.

The academy is an opportunity for participants to learn first-hand about law enforcement in Pierce County and to meet the Sheriff and other department members. The course seeks to familiarize the public with all aspects of the Sheriff’s Department and provides insight into the practices of law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

The class covers topics such as the law, patrol procedures, use of force, detectives, narcotics, K-9, domestic violence, hiring and training, and more. Field trips are scheduled to the 9-1-1 Communications Center, Pierce County Jail, Sheriff’s headquarters, and the Range.

Pre-registration is required and applications are accepted on a first come first served basis until the class is filled. At this time there are 30 openings. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. Fingerprinting and a photo I.D. are required after preliminary acceptance to the program so sign up soon.

You can register online or print and mail in the application. More information will be sent once your application is received.