JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Jamestown Police Department will be introducing a Citizens Police Academy later this year.

Assistant Police Chief Justin Blinsky reports that the department has been working on the project for several months and with the City Attorney to create the academy. Major Blinsky stated they had several reasons why they wanted to create the program.

The program will acquaint individuals who are not sworn police officers with the activities with the Jamestown Police Department. One highlight of the program will have individuals participate in a ride-along with a police officer for a shift to see what a day as a police officer is like.

Major Blinsky says the program will give individuals insight into the police department during a 10 week program that would meet once a week. He explained that several agencies have created a similar thing in their communities and have seen great success.

Major Blinksy pointed out that the first initial class will be small with maybe 10 people being accepted. Throughout, individuals will learn about different topics and will ultimately be encouraged to continue towards being in law enforcement. He says they’ll begin distributing applications on August 7th.

The course would then run from October through December. Ages 18 and up will be accepted.

Mayor Dwaine Heinrich said the program would be a great thing for residents.