The Warwick Police Department is accepting applications for the 26th Citizens Police Academy.

The 12-week course gives residents an in-depth look at the department and follows the actual “hands on training” officers undergo.

Officers from the department run the program, which includes a station tour and covers topics such as Patrol Operations, Use of Force, Legal Proceedings, DUI’s and Drug Crimes, Accident Investigation, Evidence Processing, Arson Investigations, Mental Health, SWAT Demonstration, Basic Firearms, Emergency Vehicle Operations, Sex Offenses and Sex Offender Regulations, K-9 Demonstration, Explosive Ordincane Disposal, Active Shooter Threats and Patrol Ride-a-Longs.

The department’s goal for the Citizens Police Academy is “to build a closer bond with our resident and business community.”

The Academy will run every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Warwick Police Headquarters starting on March 10 through May 26. There will also be two Saturday meetings off site.

The course is open and free to all Warwick residents and employees.

Applicants must be 18 years or older, sign any and all waivers or agreements and have no criminal history. Background checks will be performed and only 30 applicants will be accepted into the program.

For more information about the Citizens Police Academy contact Officer Danny Maggiacomo at Daniel.maggiacomo@warwickri.com or 468-4200.

Applications can be found on the department’s website at www.warwickpd.org. Completed application can be emailed to Daniel.maggiacomo@warwickri.com, mailed to the Attn: Off Maggiacomo and or dropped off in person at the Warwick Police Department headquarters at 99 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Warwick, RI, 02886. The deadline for applications is Thursday, March 3. Applicants will be contacted upon their acceptance into the program.