Learn About Oswego Police Duties At 2025 Citizen's Police Academy

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego residents and business owners can learn about the various functions of the Oswego Police Department and its officers at the upcoming Citizen's Police Academy.

Registration is now open for the 2025 academy, which begins on Feb. 19, police announced Monday evening.

Held for 13 consecutive Wednesday nights in the community room at police headquarters, 3355 Woolley Road, classes will discuss topics including patrol operations, investigations, crime scene investigation, driving under the influence enforcement and criminal law. Each class will run from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Students of the academy may also participate in practicals to experience what it's like to be a police officer. Open dialogue during sessions is also encouraged.

"This class is designed to promote better communication between Village citizens and the Police Department by fostering a better understanding of the needs of Law Enforcement and the community," police officials wrote in a news release.

Class sizes can be a minimum of 10 and maximum of 20 people, officials said. To be eligible, people 18 and older must reside, own property or operate a business within Oswego.

Applications are available at police headquarters or as an online form. The deadline to apply is noon on Feb. 14. Once participants complete the academy, they're eligible to join the Citizen's Police Academy Alumni group.

Anyone with questions about the Citizen's Police Academy can contact Officer Ben Hackl at 630-551-7382 or Deputy Chief Drew Santa Biggs at 630-551-7300.