Residents can get an inside look at the Edmond Police Department during a 13-week Citizens Police Academy.
The 27th academy starts Feb. 9. Classes are free.

“The goal of the Citizens Police Academy is to provide residents with a better understanding about what an Edmond police officer does on a daily basis as well as to provide information about the Edmond Police Department,” said officer Randy Payne.

Classes are from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at the Downtown Community Center, 28 E Main.

Crime prevention, use of force, crime scene investigations and high-risk traffic stops are among the topics for the classes.

The highlight of the academy is a Saturday class set for April 24 at the Edmond Police Department Training Center, where participants will see demonstrations by the bomb squad, emergency response team and the K-9 unit. They also will be given the opportunity to try their skills on the firing range.

“If you’ve ever wondered what the budget for the police department is or why there may be several patrol cars on a traffic stop, this class is for you,” Payne said.

Graduation is May 4.

Graduates will have the opportunity to join the Edmond Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association. The group supports the police department with various activities, awards and events throughout the year, Payne said.