AUBURN – The more citizens know about their local police department, the better off their community will be.

That’s the idea behind Auburn’s Citizens Police Academy, a program offered by the local police department.

The 10-week schedule of courses is set to start Monday, Sept. 8.

The courses offer an inside peak at how law enforcement officers go about their daily duties, including:

• basic patrol functions;

• use of force (lethal and non-lethal);

• detection and enforcement of drunken driving;

• domestic violence situations;

• K-9 demonstration;

• drug laws enforcement; and

• crime scene investigation.

Graduates of the academy learn about the structure and activities of their police department, according to a written release. “We all benefit from enhancing citizen understanding of the role and function of the police department,” Deputy Police Chief Jason Moen said. Participants won’t be trained as police officers. Instead, they’ll gain a better understanding of the operations of the police department through instruction by law enforcement.

Those enrolled will meet at the Auburn Police Department at 1 Minot Ave. each Monday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. They must attend at least eight classes to pass the academy program.

Background checks are required for participation. Applicants with felony convictions or extensive criminal histories will be turned away.

Anyone interested in getting an application for the Citizens Police Academy should visit the Auburn Police Department or contact Sgt. Anthony Harrington or Liz Allen, Volunteers in Police Service coordinator, at 333-6650. They also can be reached via e-mail at [email protected] or [email protected].