In brief

-- Mathis Winkler

NEWPORT BEACH -- The Newport Beach Police Academy is looking for

participants for its next Citizens’ Police Academy.

Although the 12-week program is scheduled to start Sept. 28, the

department may postpone it if enrollment is low.

So far, 12 people have enrolled in the course, which will meet from 7

to 10 p.m. Thursdays. At least 20 recruits are needed to run the program

successfully. If no one else signs up, the department will delay the

academy until spring.

Six classes of more than 120 students have graduated from the

2-year-old program, which introduces participants to different sections

of the department. Presentations include instruction on patrol functions,

problem-oriented policing, investigative techniques, firearm use and

crime scene investigation.

Anyone who lives or works in the city, is at least 18 and has no

felony convictions can sign up. The department asks interested

individuals to call as soon as possible because applicants are screened

before the course begins.

Information: (949) 633-3662.