Registration for the popular Citizen’s Police Academy is now opened until filled. The King County Sheriff’s Office and the cities of Maple Valley and Covington are working cooperatively to help citizens gain a better understanding of police operations through education and interaction with law enforcement officers. The Citizen’s Police Academy classes will be held every Thursday evening from 6:00-9:00 P.M. starting April 13^th through June 15^th.

Graduates of the Citizen’s Academy have historically gained a better understanding of the law enforcement role in the criminal justice system, and an appreciation for the many challenges facing law enforcement in today’s complex society.

• A 2016 graduate shared, “In today’s world the jobs that law enforcement officers do is so important, and the public’s perception of police is greatly skewed. I wish more departments had the finances and resources to create programs such as this. As more of our citizens are aware of the everyday work our police officers do, the better relationship cops and citizens will have. Not everyone is aware of everything an officer actually does, and not everyone is aware of the everyday sacrifice that cops make. Never give up on educating the misinformed about these things!”

The Citizens’ Academy is primarily classroom based, and the lessons provide hands on learning about law enforcement. A few of the courses covered include Patrol Procedures, Firearms, 911 Communications, Narcotics, K-9, Major Crimes Investigations, and Major Accident Investigations.

The three police agencies share in operation and funding of the academy as a vital way to connect with community members. The agencies will also attempt to balance enrollment among the citizens of Maple Valley, Covington, and unincorporated King County.

The class size is limited for this FREE class. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and are subject to a background check prior to acceptance.

Applications can be found on the Maple Valley Police Facebook page, our website at: www.maplevalleywa.gov/academy or at the following locations:

Maple Valley Police Department

22017 SE Wax Rd, Suite #100

Maple Valley, WA 98038

King County Sheriff’s Office/Precinct 3

22300 SE 231^st Street

Maple Valley, WA 98038

Covington Police Department

16720 SE 271^st Ave., Suite #100

Covington, WA 98042

For more information, please contact Robin Larsen at 425-413-5158.