Free event will begin Sept. 18, with sessions planned each Wednesday for 10 to 12 weeks
“The Sarasota Police Department is making an all-call” for people interested in taking part in the department’s Fall 2019 Citizens Academy, the department has announced.
“Have you ever wanted to learn more about the Sarasota Police Department K-9 Unit?” a news release asks. “How about learning more about the Criminal Investigations Division, Patrol Division or Traffic Unit? … The Sarasota Police Citizens Academy is a unique opportunity,” the release points out. It has been designed to offer members of the public the opportunity to learn more about how the department operates.
The Citizens Police Academy is accepting applications for the fall classes, which will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 18, the release adds. Each session will run from 6 until 9 p.m. every Wednesdays for up to 12 weeks. Sessions will be conducted at the department headquarters, located at 2099 Adams Lane in downtown Sarasota.
Participants will learn about defensive tactics, traffic stops, K-9 investigations, drug awareness, firearms, the Marine Patrol and the work of many other department units, the release notes.
“Applicants must be 18 years of age and have no felony convictions or outstanding warrants,” the release says. A valid driver’s license is required, as well, and each applicant is subject to a background check, the release points out.
The Sarasota Police Department Citizens Police Academy is a free event, the release says. “Binders and polo shirts will be provided to participants.”
Applications for the academy are available online at https://www.sarasotapd.org. Click on “About Us” and search for “Useful Links” for the application.
An applicant may email or mail a completed application to the Sarasota Police Department (Attention: Officer Danny Robbins), 2099 Adams Lane, Sarasota, FL 34237. Email Robbins at danny.robbins@sarasotaFL.gov; phone: 954-7056 or cell 780-2770.