Border Patrol hosts Citizen’s Academy
Applicants from community sought for five-week program
The Yuma Sector Border Patrol is now taking applications for the fall session of its U.S. Customs and Border Protection ‘Citizen’s Academy,’ which is scheduled to begin in October.
The San Luis Port of Entry and the Office of Air and Marine — Yuma Branch are also co-hosting the academy, which is designed to give participants an inside look at the distinctive roles and responsibilities of each of the agencies in securing the border between ports of entry.
In addition to touring the border, participants will have an opportunity to volunteer in interactive demonstrations, such as tracking, search and rescue, self-defense, firearms tactics, and inspections for prohibited agricultural items.
Classes will meet from 5 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday for five weeks, beginning on Oct. 4 and lasting until Nov. 1. Those interested can pick up applications at Yuma Sector Border Patrol Headquarters, 4035 S. Avenue A, the San Luis Port of Entry at Highway 95 and the International border in San Luis, Ariz.
Space is limited so applicants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 22. A limited background check will be conducted on all applicants as well.
Questions can be directed to Yuma Sector Border Community Liaison Office, (928) 341-6271 or CBPO Anica Zacarias, (928) 627-8816.
Yuma County residents can help the Border Patrol and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by calling 1-866-999-8727 toll-free to report suspicious activity. Callers can remain anonymous.
James Gilbert can be reached at jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854. Find him on Facebook at www. Facebook.com/YSJamesGilbert or on Twitter @ YSJamesGilbert.