BRIEFLY IN THE NEWS

The Newport Beach Police Department is accepting applications for a

Citizen’s Academy, which is scheduled to begin Feb. 8.

The program, which is conducted in three-hour weekly sessions over a

12-week period, is intended to increase the public’s understanding of

police operations. Students work with officers from various parts of the

department and hear from experts in areas of SWAT, canine, narcotics,

major crimes, patrol, traffic, firearms, helicopter operations and

others.

Students also participate in such practical demonstrations as traffic

stops and crime scene investigations.

Classes will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday evenings and last until 10 p.m.

To sign up, those interested must live or work in Newport Beach, be at

least 21 and have no felony convictions, outstanding warrants or pending

criminal cases. Applications should be submitted no later than Jan. 15.

The applications may be picked up in the department’s lobby and may also

be requested by mail.

Information: (949) 644-3662.