The Albert Lea Police Department will once again be hosting its Citizens Academy this spring.

The Citizens Academy is a community police program started in May of 2001. The program offers comprehensive information on the Albert Lea Police Department’s operation policies and procedures. It is a free course that includes an optional four-hour ride-along with a police officer on a tour of duty. The mission of this program is to forge cooperation and trust between citizens and the Albert Lea Police Department.

The classes are instructed by members of the Albert Lea Police Department.

Cadets will hear presentations on topics such as police equipment, narcotics, use of force and investigations, among others.

The Citizens Academy will be on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9:30 p.m. beginning on March 13 and culminating with a graduation ceremony on May 12.

Applicants should live or work in Albert Lea. Applicants must be 18 years of age and submit to a background investigation. Classes are limited to 15 applicants.

Applications can be obtained at Albert Lea City Hall, the Freeborn County Government Center (dispatch window) or by contacting Lt. Jeff Strom at 377-5254 or e-mail at jeff.strom@co.freeborn.mn.us.