The Cortez Police Department will hold a six-week Citizens Academy, designed to offer community members an inside look at the operations of the police department and aimed to create stronger connections between law enforcement and the community.
Starting Sept. 4, classes will be held each Wednesday from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. until Oct. 9 at the Cortez Police Department, 608 N. Park St. in Cortez.
Students will learn how police reports are filed and processed, how lethal drugs and evidence are collected, how body-worn cameras work and are used, and accountability and laws surrounding lethal weapons, including Tasers, according to a release from Kelly Codner, public information officer.
Students will also get the opportunity to visit the Montezuma-Cortez 911 Dispatch Center.
“Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with your local dedicated officers, ask questions, and experience the realities of policing in Cortez,” the release said.
Participation in physical activities is not mandatory, so students can participate according to their personal comfort level. Interested individuals are encouraged by the PD to sign up with their friends, members of their family or spouse.
The classes are free to the public. Anyone over the age of 18 can participate, and are encouraged to sign up at https://crimewatch.net/us/co/montezuma/cortez-pd or on the Crimewatch mobile app. The webform is located in the Programs tab. Participants will be asked their birth date via email for background checks. There are limited seats available.
