New London — Applications are being accepted for enrollment in the 2016 New London Police Department Citizens' Police Academy.

Applications are available online at www.newlondonpolice.com, the department's Facebook page and at the police department.

The deadline to submit an application is by 1 p.m. Feb. 3. 

Applicants must be 18 years or older and must undergo a background check.

Citizens in the academy will get to experience different aspects of community policing and even receive some hands-on training.

The free eight-week program runs from Feb. 10 through April 13. Each Wednesday session runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

First preference will be given to people who reside or work in the city.