Patches Nearby: Sheriff's Department Accepting Applications For Academy

The Pierce County Sheriff's Department's "Parkland" Community Academy is an opportunity for citizens to learn firsthand about law enforcement and the department's role. The new 13-week session starts Sept. 21. Applications are now being accepted.

The course will familiarize the public with the Sheriff's Department and provides insight into the practices of law enforcement and the criminal justice system. The academy also affords an opportunity to meet the Sheriff and other department members.

The class covers constitutional law, hiring, training, patrol, detectives, policing the police, narcotics, K-9, crime analysis, the criminal justice system, and domestic violence. Field trips are scheduled to the 9-1-1 Communications Center, Forensics, Pierce County Jail and the Marksman firing range.

Classes will meet on Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. A background check is done of all applicants.

Please use the online application. If you would like one mailed to you or would like to register over the phone please call 253-798-6646.