Tribune editorial staff

As children, many of us wanted to be law enforcement officers. Then, most of us realized how dangerous the profession is and changed our minds.

The fact is, being an officer of the law is noble, indeed, but it is far from an easy job. People are quick to point out the flaws of a police officer when they feel they have been wronged. Few people actually understand the breadth of knowledge an officer of the law must have and few realize that officers must make it their duty to uphold every local, state and federal law.

Lawrence County residents who would like to learn more about the law enforcement profession have a unique tool by which to do so - the Citizens Police Academy.

In its second year, the academy tentatively has classes scheduled for Aug. 15, 17, 19, 21, 28 and 31. Through the 14-hour course sponsored by the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office, citizens can learn about topics

such as laws of arrest, search and seizure, corrections, sheriff's office budgeting and an overview of the criminal justice system.

We urge anyone who would like to become more knowledgeable of the criminal justice system to attend the academy. Anyone who is contemplating a career in law enforcement should attend, too.

Those who are interested in taking the courses, which costs $15 per person, can contact the sheriff's office at 532-3525 or pick up an application at the sheriff's office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol post in South Point or at Proctorville Village Hall.

Anyone attending the academy will no doubt gain a greater appreciation of what law enforcement officers contend with in their line of work and will learn more about the laws that both protect and punish members of society.

While this course will not let you walk a mile in their shoes, you can at least try them on. The Citizens Police Academy would be time well spent for any resident of Lawrence County.