The Live Oak Police Department’s 2015 Citizens Police Academy begins on Tuesday, Sept. 22, and will offer citizens the opportunity to learn more about law enforcement and the criminal justice system “up close and personal,” according to LOPD Chief Buddy Williams.

“We have an exciting curriculum this year,” Williams said. “It’s a chance for citizens to come out and get an inside look at public safety and dispel some of the negativity regarding public safety. This is another way LOPD can show our commitment to our community and to our citizens.”

Academy curriculum includes courses on criminal law and laws of arrest, the court system and hearing process, fire safety, bank fraud and identity theft, and crime prevention; tours of the Suwannee County Courthouse and clerk of court’s office and Suwannee Correctional Institution; and taser, shooting range and defense tactics demonstrations.

“We’re really trying to provide an overview of all aspects of public safety and show how things are really done,” Williams said. “It’s not as simple as it looks on TV shows.”

The Academy will be held at LOPD headquarters and other selected locations each Tuesday evening for 10 weeks. Pick up an application at the LOPD located at 205 SE White Ave. in Live Oak. There is a $20 registration fee payable upon application. For further information, contact Erica Moreno at 386-362-7466. Space is limited, so submit your application soon.