The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for its first Citizensí Academy, a program that educates residents about the various functions of the sheriffís department. Participants will accompany deputies on a ride-along, tour the detention facilities and learn about the intricacies of the criminal investigation process. The academy covers a wide range of topics, including the use of force in certain situations, vice and narcotics operations and emergency services (wild land fire and rescue efforts as well).The Citizensí Academy is an 11-week course, which starts Wednesday, March 28 and runs each Wednesday following through June 6. Classes are held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. There is no charge to attend the Citizensí Academy, but class size is limited.Applications must be returned no later than Friday, March 2 at 5 p.m. Contact Sgt. Jeanette Whitney at 520-7275 or Deputy Jake Abendschan at 520-7107 to request an application.
