The City of Marco Island Police Department held the first Citizen’s Police Academy began last week and continues until mid-February. Police Chief Thom Carr welcomed  22 people who registered for the class of eight weeks.

Participants included youth, seniors, retirees and professionals in the community Marco Island. All regions of the island were also represented.

When asked about their participation, three points were discovered: 1) I wanted to learn, 2) I have an interest in law enforcement, and 3) Police Department Support

The first night, participants took a tour of the Police Department, met with all employees of the department through a class presentation, and the clasees were based on the mission, objectives, budget and crime statistics to the police.

The next class will be held January 31 and the following topics: history and structure of the criminal justice system in America, community policing, research in traffic accidents, and electronic devices to measure speed. Participants also toured all departmental vehicles and ships.

Community members interested in this annual training may be placed on a waiting list to contact the Police Department between 8 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday.