The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is now accepting applications for its upcoming Citizens' Academy, scheduled to begin Wednesday, September 14th.  The academy is a 10-week program designed to provide Jefferson County residents and merchants with firsthand information about how the sheriff's office functions.

Sheriff Ted Mink and Undersheriff Ray Fleer will be on-hand September 14th to welcome the Fall 2005 academy attendees. In the weeks that follow, participants will learn about the many aspects of law enforcement from veteran officers who teach in their own areas of expertise.

In a classroom setting - often enhanced with field trips and tours - citizens explore various aspects of law enforcement including criminal investigations, arrest control, detention operations and general patrol. K-9, SWAT and Bomb Squad duties are just some of the topics covered during "field trips," along with hands-on "shooting" at the indoor laser firing range. Each class provides insight into the challenging tasks deputy sheriffs and investigators must face daily.

Participation in the academy requires a commitment of one night a week, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., for the 10-week period. There is no fee for the academy. Participants must be at least 21 years old. Space in the class is limited. Once the fall academy is full, applicants will be placed on an eligibility list for the next academy. Citizens' Academies are held approximately every six months.

For further information or an application, contact Lt. Dave Taylor, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, at (303) 271-5415 or email: dtaylor@jeffco.us