Ask A Mount Vernon District Police Officer

This is a new column that gives residents the opportunity to ask Fairfax County Police Captain Randy Joyce of the Mount Vernon District about local crime and police programs.

This week, Joyce discusses the Fairfax County Citizens Police Academy, a ten-week program that gives members a behind-the-scenes look at the police department's resources, programs and officers.

Classes are a combination of lecture and interactive activities. Topics include S.W.A.T. and special operations, gangs, 911 communications center, patrol, crime prevention, crime scene, traffic stops and a tour of the Adult Detention Center.

How many people are representing the Mount Vernon District in the current program?

"We actually have seven participants from the Mount Vernon District in the current session, Session 24," Joyce said. "This is a great turn-out from our residents, and higher than normal."

The next Citizens Police Academy will take place Sept. 12 to Nov. 16. For more information or to apply, please visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/services/citizens-police-academy.htm.

Do you have a question for Captain Joyce? Ask in the comments section below and we will pick one question to be featured in our next column.