Citizens Police Academy Taking Applications in Rosemount, Apple Valley

The experience of watching a police drama on television can become somewhat of a reality for those who want to learn more about local police operations.

Applications are now open for the 2013 Citizens Police Academies by the Rosemount and Apple Valley Police Departments. Each city offers its own program.

According to the City of Rosemount website, the program aims to offer insight into modern-day policing in the local community, through classroom and hands-on training conducted by Rosemount police officers.

Training in Rosemount's Citizens Police Academy will cover topics including an overview of operations, a tour of the police facility, a review of patrol operations, driving under the influence arrest, narcotics presentation, investigations, crime scene processing,  M.A.A.G. (SWAT) and firearms, use of force or self-defense, school-liaison duties, arrests, search and seizure issues, traffic stops, community policing and crime prevention, and the chaplain program.

At the completion of the program, citizens will be given the opportunity to ride along with an officer.

"It is our hope that each participant feels informed, has an understanding about the operations of the department and knows the person behind the badge," the Rosemount website states. "Through relationships and partnerships, the police and community provide a safer Rosemount."

In Rosemount, applications will be accepted until March. 25.

The Rosemount academy will meet on Mondays from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. starting April 1, 2013, and ending May 13, 2013. Most classes will meet at Rosemount City Hall. The academy is free and open to individuals who live or work in the City of Rosemount and are at least 18 years of age. All participants will be subject to a criminal background check. 

In Apple Valley, the academy will run Tuesday evenings starting April 2, 2013 and ending Tuesday, May 28. The class will meet from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Apple Valley Municipal Center (7100 147th St. W.) and is open to anyone over the age of 18 who lives or works in Apple Valley.

Topics for Apple Valley nine-week course will include DWI enforcement, use of force, the judicial process, crime scene investigation, K9, the Dakota County Drug Task Force and many more.