The Youth Police Academy Class is now taking applications for this summer’s academy, which will be held on July 19 through July 23, 2010.

Applicants must be 12 to 17 years old. The total cost is $175. There are a few scholarships available. This price includes the cost of room and board, two academy tee shirts, and instructional fees.

The academy is held on the campus of Jefferson Davis Community College for five days and four nights.

The Youth Police Academy is sponsored by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Department, The Brewton Police Department, and Jefferson Davis Community College. It is co-sponsored by Atmore Police Department, Flomaton Police Department, and East Brewton Police Department. There are many instructors from agencies such as the Alabama State Troopers, the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, Escambia County (Fla.) Sheriff’s Office, and others.

“The academy is designed for children who have a genuine interest in law enforcement,” said Samantha Bennett with the Atmore Police Department. “This academy will challenge them physically and allow them to learn more about the function of law enforcement in our society. We feel that this program will achieve two major goals. The first is to give young people a glimpse into the law enforcement profession and to show the negative effects of criminal activity. The second is to enhance the moral character of the students by setting a positive example by academy staff. Academy students will participate in programs that are similar to those that are taught in the real Police Academy.”

Students will have classroom instruction and hands on training in various topics and will participate in physical training and drill exercises daily.

A deposit of $75 is due at time of application to reserve spot. There will be a limit of 35 students, so applications will be accepted on a first come first served basis. Applications must be received by May 28 and all fees must be paid by June 7. Checks must be made payable to Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. Contact Bennett at 251-368-9141 or beesmama1@yahoo.com or Janet Richburg with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office at 251-809-0647 or jrichburg@co.escambia.al.us.