The Albert Lea Police Department will again host a Citizens Academy, according to a press release.

The Citizens Academy is a community policing program started in May 2001. The program offers comprehensive information on the Albert Lea Police Department’s operational policies and procedures, the release stated. 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.

Participants will hear topics such as hiring, field training officers, police equipment, narcotics, use of force, crime scene investigations, community service officer program and DUI investigations, among others. The program is lecture and hands on.

The Citizens Academy will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays beginning March 19, culminating with a graduation ceremony May 11. Applicants should reside or work in the city of Albert Lea. Applicants must be 18 years of age and submit to a limited 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 jstrom@ci.albertlea.mn.us or 507-377-5254. The application deadline is Feb. 24.