The Albert Lea Police Department will once again host Citizens Academy.

The Citizens Academy is a community police program that started in May of 2001. The program offers comprehensive information on the Albert Lea Police Department’s operation policies and procedures. It is a free course which includes an optional four-hour ride-along with a police officer on a tour of duty. The mission of this program is to forge cooperation and trust between citizens and the Albert Lea Police Department.

The classes are instructed by members of the Albert Lea Police Department.

Cadets will hear topics such as police equipment, narcotics, use of force, and investigations among others.

Citizens Academy will be Thursdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. beginning on March 21 and culminating with a graduation ceremony on May 13.

Applicants should reside or work in the City of Albert Lea. Applicants must be 18 years of age and submit to a background investigation. Classes are limited to 15 cadets.

Applications can be obtained at Albert Lea City Hall, the Freeborn County Government Center (dispatch window) or by contacting Lt. Jeff Strom at 377-5254 or e-mail at jeff.strom@co.freeborn.mn.us .

The application deadline is Feb. 25.