The Aurora Police Department is accepting applications for the spring session of its Citizen Police Academy which will run for 10 consecutive Thursdays, beginning Feb. 18.

The academy allows Aurora residents and business owners the chance to learn how the police department and its officers function on a daily basis by exploring a wide variety of interactive topics.  The difference between criminal and civil law, gang and drug awareness, use of force, investigations, and juvenile law are among the subjects taught.  Participants also engage in practical exercises that cover building searches, crime scene processing, and traffic stops.  All instructors in the CPA are Aurora Police Officers and the academy is free of charge.

The spring class is the 41^st Citizen Police Academy offered by the Aurora Police since it began in the early 1990s.

Classes meet every Thursday night from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Aurora Police Department Headquarters, 1200 E. Indian Trail.  Interested applicants must submit to a background check which makes pre-registration a must.  Participants must be at least 21 years old and live or work in the City of Aurora; or own property within the city limits.

Seating is limited. Applications are downloadable by clicking on the police department tab on the City of Aurora website at www.aurora-il.org ; or by calling (630) 256-5342 or (630) 256-5385.  Deadline to register is Feb. 11.

SOURCE: Aurora Police Department news release