The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is looking for interested citizens to attend its winter Community Academy program. The University Place academy begins Feb. 20 and will meet each Thursday evening from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for 13 weeks. The South Hill academy begins March 19 and will meet each Wednesday evening from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for 13 weeks.

The academy is an opportunity for participants to learn first-hand about law enforcement in Pierce County and to meet the Sheriff and other department members. The course seeks to familiarize the public with all aspects of the Sheriff’s Department and provides insight into the practices of law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

The class covers topics such as the law, patrol procedures, use of force, detectives, narcotics, K-9, domestic violence, hiring and training, and more. Field trips are scheduled to the 9-1-1 Communications Center, Pierce County Jail, Sheriff’s headquarters, and the Range.

Pre-registration is required and applications are accepted on a first come first served basis until the class is filled. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. Fingerprinting and a photo I.D. are required after preliminary acceptance to the academy.

You can register online or print and mail in the application. To get more information, visit the Sheriff’s Department website. More information on the class will be sent once your application is received.