Are you fascinated with police and crime stories, or want to find out more about the police department? Rehoboth residents are being offered a chance to learn about the department during the Citizens Police Academy, a new program that starts next month.

“I’m excited about it. It’s a good outreach program to the community,” said Police Chief Stephen Enos.

The program, which will run 12 weeks, is open to residents 16 and older and is free. Classes will take place 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday starting Oct. 1.

“It opens the police department to the public so they can get an inside look at the department and gives them an idea of the inner workings,” said Enos.

According to Enos, people’s vision of police officers is sometimes skewed by what they see on television. “If they don’t have the opportunity to interact closely with the police, they may not have a full appreciation of all the different aspects of policing in this day and age,” said Enos.

The program will give an overview of the department, how investigations are handled, and how emergency services are dispatched. It also will explain how drunken drivers are processed, the K-9 department is handled, and court cases are managed.

“That’s an important aspect. Some people may not realize how much of a role the police play in obtaining a successful prosecution in court,” said Enos.

The program, taught by different members of the department, also will include hands-on demonstrations of various procedures including car stops and building searches.

It will culminate in an actual ride-along with police.

Similar programs have taken place in other communities. “These programs have been very successful. There’s always great interest,” said Enos.

If the program is successful, Enos says it will run again in the spring.

Applications for the Citizens Police Academy are available at the police department, town hall, and the Council on Aging. Anyone with questions, contact Chief Enos or Officers Nicole Eastwood or Keith Perry at 508-252-3722.