Only a Few Openings Left for Edgewood's Citizens Police Academy

There are only about five slots open for Edgewood Police Department's Citizens Police Academy this spring.

The program, which starts on Thursday, April 4, is designed to give the average citizen a better understanding of the criminal justice system and the role of police in the community. And if it's something that interests you, better act quickly.

"We haven't done one now for probably two to three years," said Officer Frederick Livingston, who will be conducting the classes. "We've already had a pretty good response."

So good that he expects the remaining slots to fill quickly. The class takes only 15 residents.

The eight-week program—approximately two hours per session—will cover such topics as police academy training, patroling responsibilities, homicide, investigations, cybercrime, courts, juvenile crime, narcotics and forensics. Experts in those fields, including judges and Edgewood police Chief Robert Payne, who worked in the Allegheny County police homicide unit, will provide insightful information to participants.

Students might also get to try out real-life shooting simulation drills on a Firearms Training Simulator (FATS) machine at the Monroeville Public Safety and FBI Training Center, according to Livingston. The situations give students an understanding of the tough split-second decisions that face police officers on the job.

In order to participate, potential students must be 18 years of age or older. Participants are subject to a criminal history/background check, must be free from any illegal drug use, and either reside or work in Edgewood Borough. Applications are available at the borough building and must be filled out in order to be considered.

At the completion of the course, participants will be presented with graduation certificates.

For more information, call the police department at 412-242-9994.

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