Ever wonder why we do what we do? Then join the Citizen Police Academy! The academy allows you to learn how the police department and our officers function on a daily basis by exploring a wide variety of interactive topics including the difference between criminal and civil law, gang and drug awareness, use of force, investigations, juvenile law, and other relevant topics. You also engage in practical exercises that cover building searches, crime scene processing, and traffic stops.The academy is free of charge and open to anyone 21 or older who lives, works or owns property in Aurora.

The 45th Citizen Police Academy begins March 8 and runs 10 consecutive Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at Aurora Police Headquarters. We currently have a waiting list of 40 people which illustrates the program’s success. It also means there’s only 30 people who can go through the academy this year who are not already on the list.

You can apply online at https://eforms.aurora-il.org/f/cpa_app. Deadline is March 1. A background check is required.