Lyon County police are hoping an upcoming Citizens Law Enforcement Academy will garner enough interest to fill 20 to 30 volunteer slots.
The classes, to be held Thursdays, except Thanksgiving, from Oct. 2 through Dec. 11. are aimed at introducing residents to the inner workings of the Lyon County Sheriff's Department.
After completing the class, those wishing to become more involved in law enforcement can join the Volunteers in Policing program, said Chief Deputy Ken Barnes.
"We want the volunteers to be the eyes and ears for the department," he said.
Lyon County has a unique situation in that 2,100 square miles fall under the jurisdiction of the department, he said.
"We have so many different communities it makes it really tough," he said. "I'm really hoping for a lot of participation. People will get to know the officers a lot better. It will give them a chance to see what's going on in the community and to be a part of it. They can be part of the solution, instead of the problem."
"These volunteers would take a part in assisting to make the community better," he said.
Volunteers will be given distinctive uniforms and radios and work in law enforcement programs such as Gang Resistance Education and Training and Drug and Alcohol Resistance Education. They will also assist with special events such as high school basketball games and Dayton Valley Days, Barnes said. He said all volunteers will undergo an extensive background check.
The first classes will be in Yerington, where attendees will get tours of the dispatch center and the jail. The remaining dates will be at the Silver Springs Macatee Building, Barnes said.
To register for the class or become a volunteer, call (775) 463-6600 or (775) 577-5021.
YOU CAN HELP
What: Lyon County Citizen's Law Enforcement Academy
When: Thursdays, Oct. 2 through Dec. 11
Where: Silver Springs Macatee Building and Yerington
Call: (775) 463-6600 or (775) 577-5021
