The Kirkland Citizen’s Police Academy organized by the Kirkland Police Department (KPD), is a little-known adventure, even within the city. On a whim, I decided to enroll. After being cleared by their screening process, I along with 19 others went on to have the most enlightening and fun-filled 13-week experience!

The academy was flagged off by Chief Eric Olsen, and classes conducted primarily by Capt. Mike Ursino, Det. Allan O’Neill and Sgt. Rob Saloum – a threesome that it was plain to see takes great pride in their chosen vocation and really enjoyed showcasing the department.

Each session began with a “shift briefing” led by Ursino who gave us a brief sketch of local crimes during the past week. O’Neill always had interesting videos to substantiate the learning imparted. Saloum was playfully teased each time he referred to his experiences in Tennessee law enforcement.

I must admit that prior to attending this academy I suspected that appearing “deadpan” and unsmiling was a criteria for recruitment as a police officer, because that had been my experience thus far. But these officers quickly disproved that belief with their incomparable sense of humor, camaraderie and down-to-earth humanity. Volunteer Andrea Larson did an excellent job of making sure that classes ran smoothly, and attendees coming straight from work appreciated the refreshments and hot coffee she organized for us that one night each week.

The stated goal of the academy is “to provide citizens with an insight into the police department and to develop a partnership to work together to make Kirkland a great place to live, work, and play.” But it did far more than that! At each class, various myths about the workings of the police force were dispelled as guest speakers shared their expertise in the various specialties that make up the routine lives of our brave Men in Blue. Their presentations were interesting and informative, and we had the opportunity to not only have our questions answered but to participate in mock sessions and get a hands-on feel for their tough job. We learned the process of selection and training of police officers, and of evidence collection from crime scenes; the scientific principles of RADARs; measurement taking at traffic accidents and crime scenes and how to legally search and seize. In addition, we learned about the necessity of probable cause for search warrants; the restrictions in pursuits and emergency vehicle operation; the dangers in traffic stops; and many other interesting factoids that are routine in their daily lives.

The Special Response Team (more commonly known as SWAT) made a dramatic entry into one class, half scaring the life out of some of us. We were then placated by the thrill of trying on their gear and checking out their weapons and equipment. Crisis negotiators demonstrated the tactics of negotiation, and then gave us the opportunity to practice our newly acquired knowledge in a mock crisis scenario. The brave among us volunteered for practical experience when we were taught the correct use of tasers. Max the lovable German Shepherd of the K-9 unit gave an impressive performance of his talents and discipline that had us dog owners envious of his handler. We went on a tour of the Law Enforcement Academy in Burien to practice building searches in their Mock City, and to target shoot with the help of their Firearms Simulator. At Kirkland’s Park Place we processed a mock crime scene (elaborately set up by Allan and his very able assistant, Andrea), arrested a “suspect” and gathered evidence that was later presented at a mock trial in the Kirkland Municipal Court.

All in all, it was a memorable and informative experience for which, on behalf of the Citizen’s Academy Class of 2010, I would like to thank Chief Eric Olsen, Capt. Mike Ursino, Det. Allan O’Neill, Sgt. Rob Saloum, Andrea Larson, Lt. Mike Murray, Ofc. Chuck Pierce (Crisis Negotiations), Sgt. Lisa Brouelette (DUI Enforcement/BAC), Sgt. Todd Aksdal (Use of Force/Officer Survival), Ofc. Jim Kissinger (Traffic), Cpl. Phil Goguen (Traffic), Cpl. Kevin Florence (Corrections), Ofc. Julia Valencia (Patrol), Ofc. Kevin Christianson (Patrol), Ofc. Jeff Trombley and Max (K-9), Capt. Rex Caldwell (Criminal Justice Training Center/Kirkland Police), Cpl. Gary Eggleston (Firearms Simulator), Det./Cpl Brad Porter (Tasers), Det. Janelle McMillian (Domestic Violence), Det. Audra Weber (Investigations), Det./Cpl  Don Carroll (Investigations), Det. Krista Gilland (Investigations), Det. Joe Indahl (Investigations), Det. Mike Aguilar (Crime Scenes & Evidence Collection), Family/Youth Advocate Christelle Lentz (Domestic Violence), Judge Mike Lambo (Kirkland Municipal Court) and the entire KPD. Keep up the good work of keeping our city safe!

Ameeta Chainani lives in Kirkland.