LEWISTON — The Police Department will offer a Citizens’ Police Academy for up to 22 residents starting next week. The program provides insight on the operations of the department.

Classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on 10 Wednesdays starting Jan. 13.

The instructors will be members of the Law Enforcement community who will focus on a particular area of their profession.

There may also be some input and instruction working with non-police, outside agencies with which the department has regular cooperation.

This is not a police officer candidate school, but a means by which the department can allow residents of Lewiston to see first-hand how the department operates. This will not be an open forum to discuss previous law enforcement contacts or grievances.

An 80 percent attendance rate is required.

A background check will be conducted on all applicants, and those with felony convictions or extensive criminal backgrounds will not be accepted. All applicants should be at least 18 years of age, with certain limited exceptions considered with parental permission.