AUBURN — Last-minute applications are being accepted for the Auburn Police Department’s upcoming Citizens Police Academy.

This 10-week program scheduled to begin on Tuesday, March 29, offers community members insight into how local police officers perform their duties and how the department serves the community.

The goal of the program is to foster better communication between citizens and police through education. This series of informational classes provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Police Department.

Auburn has offered the program for many years, and the agency always finds it to be a rewarding experience for participants and officers. “We all benefit from enhancing citizen understanding of the role and function of the Police Department,” said Police Chief Phil Crowell Jr. “Participants will not be trained as police officers, but they will get a fun and informative overview of what we do.”

Participants will meet at the Auburn Police Department from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. All course instructors are members of law enforcement and will present material on topics such as basic patrol functions, use of force, operating under the influence detection and enforcement, domestic violence, K9 demonstrations, drug enforcement, crime scene investigations and more.

Class size is limited and will be filled on a first-come basis, with preference given to residents of Auburn. A background check will be performed on all applicants. Applicants with felony convictions or extensive criminal backgrounds will not be accepted.

Those interested may pick up an application at the Auburn Police Department in Auburn City Hall or download the application online at www.auburnpd.com.

FMI, apply: www.auburnpd.com, 207-333-6650, ext. 2070, [email protected].