Arlington Police to hold Citizen’s Academy

Law enforcement officials in Arlington have been taking steps to be more involved in the community. Now, they’re adding a way for local residents to do the same with the Arlington Police Department.

By Adam Rudnick • July 6, 2010 7:46 am
Cmdr. Brian DeWitt of the Arlington Police Department has been involved in planning a Citizen’s Academy for local residents to learn about the day-to-day activities of police officers and department personnel.
Cmdr. Brian DeWitt of the Arlington Police Department has been involved in planning a Citizen’s Academy for local residents to learn about the day-to-day activities of police officers and department personnel.

ARLINGTON — Law enforcement officials in Arlington have been taking steps to be more involved in the community.

Now, they’re adding a way for local residents to do the same with the Arlington Police Department.

Police officials announced earlier this month that they are starting a Citizen’s Academy for community members to learn more about what officers do throughout the day.

“It’s our way of reaching out to the community so that they know what we do,” said Cmdr. Brian DeWitt.

The department is seeking about 20 individuals to take part in the 13-week class, which will include sessions on patrol and traffic enforcement, law and criminal procedures, firearms and officer safety and other police-related topics.

The class will meet from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Thursdays from Aug. 26 through Nov. 18.

Applications are being accepted until Aug. 10 and selected participants will be notified by Aug. 17.

DeWitt said he’s hoping to have guest speakers from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office and the city’s K-9 unit. The group will also take part in at least one or two field trips.

Individual class members will also get to do a police ride-along with an officer, DeWitt said.

Applicants will undergo a criminal history check. Preference will be given to those who live within the Arlington city limits, and all applicants must be at least 18.

Cost for the program is free.

The Citizen’s Academy is the latest step the department has taken in trying to reach out to the community.

Earlier this year, police personnel restarted the department’s Police Explorer program for teenagers and young adults ages 14-21.

That program, which was revived by officer Seth Kinney, gives volunteers a chance to assist officer with their daily duties by helping out at city functions, parades and other events.

The Arlington Police Department has also recently brought on 18 volunteers who greet residents and help out in the police station.

“We’re trying really hard to get the community involved because we want to see them more active,” DeWitt said.

To pick up an application for the Citizen’s Academy or any of the other police volunteer programs, visit the police station at 110 E. Third Street, or call 360-403-3400.