The Auburn Police Department has opened applications for its free spring Citizens Academy, a program with classes hitting on various public safety topics along with the opportunity to learn about and interact with APD employees, including everyone from the chief of police to detectives and even K-9s.

The academy starts on March 4 and ends on May 20, with classes running from 6 to 8 p.m.

According to the City of Auburn, the academy consists of weekly interactive classes where participants meet and learn about a variety of topics, including patrol operations, introduction to investigations, SWAT operations, hostage negotiations, police response to resistance, vehicle pursuits and more. Crossley said the benefits that citizens get from this academy are direct access to police officers and other staff to engage in one-on-one conversations, education on training and equipment, and a ride-along experience.

“The Auburn Police Department started this program to provide the community with an inside look at how policing works. Many people are unaware of the complexities and behind-the-scenes operations that keep the department running,” Crossley said. “By offering this opportunity, APD aims to increase transparency, build trust, and help residents gain a deeper understanding of the many roles, responsibilities, and challenges officers and staff face daily.”

According to Auburn, after attending a minimum of eight classes, participants will be scheduled for a ride-along with an officer. Participants must also attend nine out of 12 sessions to graduate.

Crossley said the citizens academy is something APD has done for years, and it’s something they plan to continue doing. He said following the spring academy, they usually do a fall academy, too.

Crossley said applicants are picked on a first-come-first-serve basis as long as they pass the background check. He said the number of people accepted is capped at 30 people.