The Evanston Police Department is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Citizen Police Academy, which will start its spring session March 4, the city announced Wednesday.

The free 12-week program includes a tour of police headquarters, crime scene investigation practice, self-defense exercises, a mock trial and an explanation of how officers decide whether to use force. Anyone at least 18 years old living or working in Evanston is eligible to register.

After graduating from the academy, students receive a Citizen Police Academy jacket and diploma at the commencement ceremony. The program has graduated more than 800 people since 1995.

Classes, which are limited to 30 students per session, occur Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The deadline for registration is Feb. 27.

There are two academy sessions each year, one in the spring and one in the fall.

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