Deadline extended to Dec. 1 for Rusk’s Citizens Police Academy

by Jo Anne Embleton news@thecherokeean.com

The deadline for a 2022 Rusk Citizens Police Academy has been extended to Wednesday, Dec. 1, to draw more participants.

“As of now, we have received zero applications – we need a minimum of 10 folks, otherwise we will have to postpone the classes until summertime,” said Rusk Police Chief Jeremy Black.

The eight-week academy is set to begin Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, held from 6-8 p.m. at the community room of the Rusk Public Library.

According to Black, “law enforcement topics covered will be police administration and police development, patrol tactics, traffic enforcement and criminal investigations.”

Many of the topics, he added, will be taught ‘hands-on’ for those who want to participate, and an optional Saturday class is planned for firearms training for participants. Graduation from the academy is set for March 3, 2022.

The academy is designed to strengthen the relationship between police and community, and set in an environment that encourages two-way communication between the groups.

“It’s really important to be able to offer this for folks,” Black said. “A lot of people think they know what the police department does, and this gives more of an insider’s view. They get their hands-on information by asking the tough questions and seeing those answers.”

Applications are available at the Rusk Police Department. Those applying must be at least 18 years of age, live/work in the Rusk area and be able to pass a criminal background check.

Contact 903-683-2677 for more information.