(FAIRBANKS, Alaska) – In April, Fairbanks will become the third community to have an Alaska State Trooper Citizen Academy to promote and enhance people’s understanding and awareness of the role of troopers.

The AST Citizen Academy Program already has seen success in the Mat-Su Valley and a session just started in Soldotna this week. This is the first AST Citizen Academy offered in Fairbanks.

The AST program is based on Citizen Police Academy model being formed 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.

The first session will take place on Thursday, April 4, 2013. The academy will meet 6:30-9:30 p.m. every Thursday until June 14, 2013, and possibly one or two Saturday afternoons. Classes will be held at the D Detachment Headquarters at 1979 Peger Road in Fairbanks unless otherwise instructed. Application deadline is March 28, 2013.

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. Class size is limited to 15 people.

Applications can be picked up and dropped off at the Alaska State Trooper post on Peger Road or found on the AST Public Information Office website at https://www.dps.alaska.gov/PIO/citizenacademy.aspx

For more information, contact Sgt. Brian Wassmann at (907)451-5100.