Sheriff's Community Police Academy taking applications

Niagara County Sheriff James R. Voutour has announced the free Sheriff's Community Police Academy will take place on Thursdays, from Feb. 26 to May 28, at the Niagara County Public Safety Building, 5574 Niagara St. Extension, Lockport. Class instruction will begin at 6 p.m. and continue for three to fours hours each Thursday.

"The goal of the Sheriff's Community Police Academy is to provide county residents with a working knowledge and background of the Niagara County Sheriff's Office," Voutour said.

Topics such as a firearms training simulator, reality-based training and emergency vehicle operator course work are included in the program.

The academy is open to those age 20 and older who reside or work within Niagara County with no prior felony convictions or outstanding warrants. Applications are available atwww.niagarasheriff.com.

Those with questions or seeking an application can contact Capt. Dunn at 716-438-3331 or Deputy Pat Williams at 716-523-0098. Due to a limit on class size, it is possible some applicants will not be accepted. Those accepted will be notified by letter, with more information provided on the program.