• 
• CLASS
• JOBS
• AUTO
• HOMES

Milton police offer behind-the-scenes experience

Photo

Jerry Schuetz

MILTON — The Milton Police Department is hoping to find its newest recruits in the community it serves.

The department will start accepting applications Friday for its first "citizens academy."

The eight-week academy, which starts in late March, will let residents experience what it's like to be police officers in the hopes of promoting mutual understanding, Chief Jerry Schuetz said.

Plus, participants get to shoot guns and ride in police cars.

"It gives people some insight into what is often...a very sensationalized profession," Schuetz said.

Schuetz has been working to improve community relations since taking over in August. He instituted "team policing" in fall, where a team of officers works the same shift every day so it can get to know people in the community and focus on specific community issues.

Now, he wants residents to see what it's like from behind the badge.

Participants will learn defense and arrest tactics, firearm basics and how to deal with aggressive subjects. They will go to a shooting range and ride along on officer patrols.

Besides learning more about what police do, the participants will gain skills they can use in their daily lives, Schuetz said. For example, they will learn when it's appropriate to call the police, the importance of reporting suspicious activity and how to use the police department more effectively.

They also will learn about domestic violence and sexual assault, including resources for helping victims.

A $700 grant from the Milton Community Fund will pay for the class. Participants must pass a background check and be at least 18 years old.

The class has room for 25. Eligible participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, though the department will give preference to Milton residents.

Schuetz hopes the academy is fun for people who want to know more about the department or who wanted to become police officers but never did.

"Anyone who's interested in learning about law enforcement or how law enforcement works is encouraged to apply," he said.

Applications are available at the police department and on the city's Web site.

TO APPLY

The Milton Police Department will start taking applications Friday for its first citizens academy.

Applications are available at the department, 120 Parkview Drive, and on the city's Web site, www.ci.milton.wi.us.

The academy is limited to 25 participants, who must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, though Milton residents are given preference.

For more information, call the department at (608) 868-6910.