The City of Rhinelander will be holding its ninth Citizen’s Police Academy beginning next month.  Applicants are being sought for the eight-week academy, which will run from Feb. 25 through April 21.

The Citizen’s Police Academy is designed to provide students with an insight into the everyday activities that occur in law enforcement.

“This program is intended to develop a strong community bond that will strengthen our community and give citizens a desire to become more involved with community policing,” according to a press release from Rhinelander Police Chief Michael Steffes.

Rhinelander Police officers will teach citizens about firearms, defensive and arrest tactics, patrol procedures, drug investigations, criminal investigations, and operating while under the influence.  Students will also complete a four-hour ride-along with Rhinelander Police officers.  In addition, we have added a night of training with the Rhinelander Fire Department.

Any interested citizen who resides in the City of Rhinelander, owns property or a business, or works in the City of Rhinelander, is encouraged to apply.  Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and must not have any criminal records.  Background checks will be conducted.  The Rhinelander Police Department does reserve the right to accept or refuse any application.

The participants will meet one night per week, usually Thursdays, 6-10 p.m.

There is no cost to apply for this program.  Applications can be obtained at the Rhinelander Police Department or by going to our website, www.rhinelanderpd.com.  The Citizen’s Police Academy is limited to twelve (12) participants, so the earlier applications have a better chance of being selected as a participant.

For more information, contact Officer Chad Brown, Officer Jim Robbins, or Chief Michael Steffes at the Rhinelander Police Department, 715-365-5300.