Sheriff's Office holds Citizen Academy starting in April

Flathead County sheriff’s deputies handle hundreds of calls each week, involving everything from armed people to quibbles over misplaced lawn art.

Keeping the county safe is a big job and people interested in learning the ins and outs of what the office does can sign up for the Sheriff’s Citizens’ Academy, which will take place this spring.

According to Deputy Travis Bruyer, more than 200 people have completed the program. It is free but space is limited.

 The program teaches people how the Sheriff’s Office works, with information about administrative philosophy, internal policies, and the guiding principles of law and ethical conduct.

The program covers procedures from patrol and investigations to emergency vehicle operations and firearm procedures. It includes a tour of the jail as well as education about other operational tasks.

The Academy training will consist of classroom and hands-on training with emphasis on student involvement.

The program will start April 13 and run through June 2. It will be held on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Apply online at http://flatheadcountysheriff.com/?page_id=2673.