VALDOSTA – The Valdosta Police Department announced the 29th session of the Citizen’s Police Academy seeks applicants.

The session runs Thursday, March 7, through Thursday, May 9, according to police officials. 

The goal of the CPA is to give residents a better understanding of the internal workings of a modern-day law-enforcement agency and promote a team concept between the Valdosta Police Department and residents, police said.

During the academy, residents are exposed to a variety of topics to provide an in-depth understanding of law enforcement. Residents will be given a tour of the Valdosta-Lowndes Regional Crime Lab, a tour of the Emergency 911 Center, a tour of Valdosta State Prison, shooting-simulation training, the opportunity to ride along with patrol officers and an introduction to the function and mission of each bureau within the department. 

There are no fees to attend and all materials needed are furnished free of charge, police said. Residents meet each Thursday evening during the 10-week class and there is a graduation ceremony at the end of the academy.

The class is limited in size and applicants are selected on a first-come basis. The CPA is given twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. 

Applicants not selected for this session, may be selected to attend the CPA in the fall, police said.

Residents should contact Capt. Kari Williams at (229) 293-3099 or kwilliams@valdostacity.com for an application.