Oak Forest PD Accepting Applications For Citizens Police Academy

OAK FOREST, IL — The Oak Forest Police Department is accepting applications for its Citizens Police Academy, a 10-week program designed to provide residents a working knowledge of law enforcement and police department operations. The program is free of charge and is limited to 20 students.

“Citizens will gain important insight into how law enforcement officials perform their duties and how the department serves the community,” said Community Program Officer Tracy Weiland.

“The purpose of the academy is to foster better communication between citizens and law enforcement through education.”

According to Weiland, the academy will create a nucleus of well-informed citizens who possess greater insight into police practices and services. Graduates of the academy will be encouraged to share their knowledge and experience with other community members as opportunities arise – creating a win-win situation for the police department, participants and community.

The class will meet every other Monday at 7 p.m. at the police department from February 6 through June 12. The academy will be both informative and educational, with some classes allowing hands-on participation.

Applications are available until January 31 at the police department at 15440 Central Avenue or online at www.oak-forest.org. All applicants must be 21 years old or older.

For more information, please contact Officer Tracy Weiland at 708-687-4050, ext. 1219 or e-mail tweiland@oak-forest.org.