Program offers residents firsthand view of police work

The Simi Valley Police Department is again looking for members of the community to join its Citizens Police Academy.

The program is designed to increase understanding of the operational policies and procedures of the police department and the Ventura County Criminal Justice System.

Students receive instruction from representatives of the Simi Valley Police Department, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office and other agencies that work in partnership with the police.

The classes will include topics such as narcotics, K9, dispatch, patrol, investigations, gangs, crime, analysis, SWAT, traffic enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Students will be required to participate in a ride-along with a Simi Valley Police Department officer.

The Citizens Police Academy is open to any adult who lives or works in Simi Valley who does not have any felony convictions or pending criminal actions at the time of application.

Applicants will undergo a short criminal history check in order to participate in the ridealong.

Classes will be held once a week for 11 weeks beginning Tuesday, March 11.

Sessions will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Simi Valley Police Department, 3901 Alamo Street.

Class is limited to 25 students.

Community members interested in participating must make an interview appointment no later than Friday, Feb. 22 by calling Janet Seghi at (805) 5836927, or Julie Lawrence at (805) 583-6977.