(PALMER, Alaska) – Registration is open for the fourth Alaska State Troopers Citizen Academy offered in the Mat-Su Valley to promote and enhance citizen understanding and awareness of the role of troopers within the community. After three successful sessions in the Valley, the next will start on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015.

The AST program is based on Citizen Police Academy (CPA) model used by police agencies throughout the country. CPAs are intended to open the lines of communication between the community and their local police and help expand a police agency’s community-based efforts. AST’s Citizen Academy can also alleviate some misunderstanding by providing citizens a firsthand look at the statutes, regulations and policies that guide troopers in their daily duties.

Starting in January, the academy will meet 6-9:15 p.m. every Tuesday and will run until April 14, 2015. There will be a few Saturday field trips.  Unless otherwise instructed, classes will be held at the Department of Corrections Training academy at 515 E. Dahlia Avenue in Palmer.

Advance registration is required for the academy. Applicants must be at least 18-years old and reside in Alaska. Additionally, participants must pass a background investigation including a criminal history check. Felony and some misdemeanor convictions will preclude participation in the AST Citizens Academy. Application deadline is Dec. 31, 2014.

Applications can be picked up and dropped off at the Alaska State Trooper posts located in Palmer at 453 S. Valley Way, outside Wasilla at 527 N. Pittman Road or found on the AST Public Information Office website at https://www.dps.alaska.gov/PIO/citizenacademy.aspx

For more information, contact Lt. Rob French at (907)745-2131.

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