Newark, OH -- The Newark Division of Police is now accepting applications for its next Citizen Police Academy program. Classes will take place on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 9:30 pm beginning September 19, 2013. The academy is a 10-week program that will enable participants to experience firsthand how the Police Division operates and performs the day-to-day business of serving and protecting the citizens of the community. The goal of the program is to give citizens an insider's view of law enforcement, to dispel misconceptions, and to increase police community rapport.

Instruction is provided by police officers and will include such topics as vehicle stops, traffic enforcement, crash investigations, criminal investigations, firearms training, special operation tactics and defensive tactics. Other areas to be covered include search and seizure, canine handling, an overview of the criminal justice system and more.

There is no cost for the program and a light meal will be provided each week prior to the start of class. Class size is limited to 20 people and participants must be 18 years of age or older. Preference will be given to Newark residents and those working in Newark. Participants must attend eight of the ten weeks to receive a certificate. Background checks will be conducted on all applicants.

Applications are available online at www.newarkpd.com and are also available at Police Headquarters located at 39 S. Fourth Street. Completed applications must be returned no later than August 1, 2013.