City police are looking for a few good citizens.

Applications are being accepted for the 12th annual Citizens Police Academy, which begins March 17 and continues to May 5.

Applications can be picked up at the front desk at the police station, 344 Elgin St., and are also available at the police service’s website at www.police.brantford.on.ca

The academy is an opportunity to learn more about policing. Topics covered include forensic identification, major crime investigation, Internet predators and how to protect your children, use of force as well as accident investigation and reconstruction.

Participants also have an opportunity to tour the police station, learn about the auxiliary police and see a breath demonstration. Sessions are held once a week in the community room at the police station.

A graduation ceremony is held following the eight-week academy. A draw will be held for five participants to have a “ride along” with a police officer.

Last year’s academy attracted more than 40 people, making it the largest ever held in Brantford.

The history of the police academy can be traced to the United Kingdom in 1977. Locally, the first Brantford academy was held in 1999 facilitated by then staff sergeant Derek McElveny, now the city’s police chief.

The program’s goal is to give citizens a better understanding of the challenges and responsibilities that come with policing.

People interested in the academy should be mature community- minded adults representing a range of ages and occupations. Security checks will be completed before the selection of participants and a valid photo identification is required.

The academy is facilitated by Staff Sgt. Rudy Jambrosic and Det. Ed Sanchuk. For more information, telephone the police station at 519-756-0113, ext. 2300.