January 28, 2020, Canton, MI – The Canton Public Safety Department will be accepting applications during the month of February for its popular Citizens Police Academy. This year’s eight-week program will be held on Thursdays, from 6-9 p.m., beginning April 23, 2020. The program is designed for residents who are interested in acquiring insight and knowledge on how the police department works to serve the Canton community.
Individuals attending the academy will be educated on the policies and operational procedures of the department through presentations, demonstrations and hands-on activities. They will increase their personal knowledge on law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system, as well as their understanding of the training and education required for police officers to effectively handle the challenges of police work.
“Academy participants will gain insight into the difficult challenges law enforcement personnel face on a daily basis through interesting and informative instruction,” said Canton Public Safety Director Joshua Meier.
The overall mission of the Citizens Police Academy is to develop positive relationships between citizens and police officers, enhancing cooperation, understanding, and general good will.
“Once again this year we will be including a mini-Citizens Fire Academy into the program,” said Meier. “Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy two sessions of the cross-over academy, learning about the daily operations of our Fire Department,” Meier added.
Class size is limited; 30 applicants meeting the below requirements will be randomly chosen to participate:
• Canton residents only
• Age 21 & over
• No felony convictions, and no misdemeanor convictions in the past 3 years
• Applicants subject to a background check
Applications will be accepted February 1 - 29, 2020, online at www.cantonpublicsafety.org, or in person at the front desk of the Canton Public Safety Headquarters located at 1150 S. Canton Center Road. Questions can be directed to Community Relations Officer Patty Esselink at 734/394-5194.
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