The Training and Career Development department of the Columbia Police Department is offering a Citizen’s Police Academy to help educate Columbia citizens in the training and operations of our police force.

The deadline for sign up is February 1, 2005. Classes begin February 10, and conclude on April 28, with graduation on May 5. Classes are free.

Classes include training in

• Terrorism Awareness

• Community Policing

• Criminal Investigation

• Juvenile Investigations

• Police Precision Driving (actually drive a police car)

• Firearms Safety Training

• Courtroom Testimony

• And more topics.

Most classes are from 7:00–9:00 pm Thursday nights, although several day–long classes (electives) are taught on Saturdays. For more information and a detailed class itinerary, please go to the following site and click for the schedule. www.columbiacpaa.org

Sergeant David Hellman is available for questions and on–camera interviews for more information, and can be reached at 255-8925.