The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is inviting all citizens who live or work in Beaufort County and are at least 18 years old to attend the 31st session of the Citizen’s Police Academy.

Beaufort classes start Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 6 to 9 p.m. and last 10 weeks. The Beaufort classes will be held at the Law Enforcement Center, 2001 Duke Street.

Class participants will learn about all aspects of the Sheriff’s Office and will have face time with the decision and policy makers of the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office provides each member with an in-depth manual containing the necessary course material. Refreshments are also provided for each session.

Topics covered by CPA instructors include but are not limited to: enforcement, criminal investigations, civil process, warrants, juvenile services, training, homeland security, drug enforcement, traffic enforcement, special teams, gangs and budget process.

The CPA also provides various hands-on demonstrations to enhance participation. Don a pair of latex gloves and immerse yourself in the world of Crime Scene Processing with a CSI scenario. Suit up and learn the physical and legal dangers of firing your duty weapon utilizing the Shoot/Don’t Shoot exercises in “Walk in Our Shoes” scenarios. Experience the dangers of drinking and driving in our DUI Fatal Vision scenario. All of these exercises are designed to give a snapshot of what law enforcement around the country is faced with every day.

Also included in the program is a ride-along with a patrol deputy, and field trips to both the Beaufort County Emergency Management Center, and to the Sheriff’s Office range facility where we will showcase some of our specialized equipment and teams. Once you have completed the program, you are invited to take part in a graduation ceremony designed to show our appreciation and pride for your commitment to making Beaufort County a better place to live.

Applications for the academy are available at the Sheriff’s Office or online at www.bcso.net. To have an application mailed, please contact Captain T.W. Smith at 255-3292.

For more information, contact Staff Sgt. M. Jennings at 255-3287 or by email at mjennings@bcgov.net.