Oswego Citizens' Police Academy Sign Up Open

OSWEGO, IL — Police in Oswego say the department's next citizens' police academy will begin on Feb. 13, and sign-ups are now open. Students will learn about the various functions and duties of the police department and its officers, officials say, including patrol, crime scene investigation, DUI enforcement and criminal law.

Classes will be held on Wednesday nights, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., in the OPD headquarters' community room. The 13-week program can accommodate up to 20 participants, who must be at least 18 years old and reside, own property or operate a business in Oswego.

Officials say open dialogue and questions are encouraged in the classroom, and students may participate in practicals, where they will step into the role of officers in various situations. Graduates of the program will also be eligible to join the academy's alumni program.

"This class is designed to promote better communication between village citizens and the police department by fostering a better understanding of the needs of law enforcement and the community," police said in a post on Facebook.

Drop by the Oswego Police headquarters to pick up an application, or apply online here. Applications are due Jan. 25 by noon. For more information, call Officer Stephen Bailey at 630-551-7364 or Deputy Chief Brad Delphey at 630-551-7300.

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