SMPD Citizens Police Academy

The San Marcos Police Department will start the next Citizen's Police Academy (CPA) Class #16 on Thursday, Aug. 19 at 6 p.m. The class has room for several more participants.

CPA lasts for 12 weeks and is held for three hours on Thursdays with two optional hands-on Saturday events.

The academy allows citizens served by the department to explores the values, philosophy, and operations of the San Marcos Police Department.

In turn, the Police Department's employees become more aware of the feelings and concerns of the community through input from the students.

The course is free to anyone who lives or works in the City of San Marcos.

Participants must also be at least 18 years of age and not have any pending charges in any criminal court.

To enroll, stop by or request an application from the Police Department, 2300 IH-35 South.

For information, contact Larry Sowards at 754-2270.

Hays Citizens Sheriff's Academy

Hays County citizens who want to learn more about law enforcement are invited to sign up for the next class of the Citizen's Sheriff's Academy.

The free 12-week course will begin on Aug. 19. Classes will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursdays, and there will also be one Saturday "demonstration" day involving the sheriff's SWAT team and mounted patrol unit.

To be eligible, citizens must live or work in Hays County, be at least 18 years old and consent to a background check.

Persons with felony convictions or who are currently on probation are not eligible.

The academy is held only twice each year, and class size is limited.

For additional information call 393-7373 or visit www.co.hays.tx.us