LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER -- The Topeka Police Department held its graduation ceremony for 29 citizens who've successfully completed the Fall 2009 Citizens’ Academy. Their graduation ceremony was held last night at the Law Enforcement Center, with a presentation of graduation certificates. This concluded the department’s 25th Citizens Academy.

The Topeka Police Department’s Citizens’ Academy is held twice a year as an opportunity for citizens to learn more about the Topeka Police Department. Some of the sessions included the Response Team, Crisis Negotiators, School Resource Officers, the history of the Topeka Police Department, the VIPS program, Defensive Action, Recruiting and Hiring, Training and a field day where participants were instructed on EVOC (Emergency Vehicle Operation Course), scenarios on when to shoot or not to shoot and an extensive K-9 demonstration.