BEAUMONT, Texas — If you're really interested in learning more about law enforcement, the Beaumont Police Department is putting on its final Citizens Police Academy of 2024.
The police department is currently accepting applications for the 15-week course which starts on August 15, 2024. During the classes , which meet on Thursday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., participants will hear from different units within the department, according to officer Haley Morrow, one of the department's public information officers.
"It's a really great way for people to learn more about the police department, you get to do some hands on activities," said Morrow.
Participants will learn more about exactly what officers do and why they do it, she said.
The program, which happens twice yearly with a class starting in January and again in August, has received lots of positive feedback, according to Morrow, who says the program is beneficial for both the police station and the residents.
"A lot of people have ideas in their head about what law enforcement is like and that's kind of based off TV and movies," says Morrow. "So we really get to kind of bust some of those myths and really create an open dialogue."
The program also allows participants to see the job from the officer's perspective.
"You can also ride out with an officer on patrol once you complete the Citizens Police Academy, so that you can really see firsthand what's going on in the community," Morrow explains.
To register, you must live in Jefferson County and at least 18-years-old.
"There's a small background check that is done," Morrow said. "You have to fill out an application and get that turned in. We have that link on our website and our facebook page."
This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
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