Tip! Citizen Academy at UC Merced

College students aren't the only ones going back to school this fall. As part of its ongoing outreach efforts, the UC Merced Police Department is hosting its first-ever Citizen Police Academy this semester. The 10-week class will begin Sept. 17 and is open to the public, but space is limited.

There are 20 seats available for the class, which will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday in Room 260 of the Classroom and Office Building. Registration will be based on first come, first served, with priority given to UC Merced students.

Topics to be discussed include the law enforcement hiring process, the criminal justice system, DUI investigations, high-tech crimes and domestic violence. Those who attend will participate in group activities and scenario-based training to teach participants how law enforcement functions.

Public contact: Officer George Gongora, (209) 228-2677 or ggongora@ucmerced.edu.