Residents Can Get First-Hand Look at Police Department

The San Bernardino Police Department is now accepting reservations for the first Citizens’ Academy being held in 2015. The free Citizens’ Academy begins on Wednesday, Mar. 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. The Academy will be conducted over a six week period with courses on Wednesday evenings, culminating in a graduation ceremony on April 8. It will be held at the San Bernardino Police Department, 710 North D St. in San Bernardino. Residents and those who work in the city are encouraged to attend. The Academy will offer participants a broad overview and insight into various functions of the police department. In the first session, participants will have the opportunity to meet the senior administrative staff and observe first-hand the variety of calls handled by the Dispatch Center. In subsequent weeks, topics of discussion will include the intricacies of a criminal investigation as detectives take them through the investigative process. Additionally, participants will learn about gangs, vice and narcotics operations and emergency services, which includes SWAT, or Special Weapons and Attack Team. Those interested in attending the Citizens’ Academy can contact Police Community Affairs at 909-384-5753. There is no charge to attend the Citizens’ Academy; however, seating will be limited to the first 50 reservations received. Reservations must be made no later than 5 p.m. on March 3.