U.S. ATTORNEY'S CITIZENS ACADEMY CLASS IN TOPEKA WILL BE TAUGHT BY FEDERAL AGENTS, PROSECUTORS

Applications due by Sept. 8

TOPEKA, KAN. - Applications open today for the U.S. Attorney's Citizens Academy in Topeka, a six-week introduction to the federal criminal justice system in Kansas.

"If you've never been in a federal courtroom or never talked to an FBI agent, this class is designed for you," said U.S. Attorney Eric Melgren. "This isn't the movies. This class is about how federal investigators and prosecutors really do their jobs."

Washburn University and the Washburn University School of Law are partnering with Melgren's office to present the Citizens Academy. The academy will meet from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.on six consecutive Tuesdays (Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4 and 11) on the campus of the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka.

"The public's knowledge of, and confidence in, our criminal justice system is essential for a strong and vibrant democracy," said Thomas J. Romig, dean of the Washburn University School of Law. "For a second consecutive year, we welcome the U.S. Attorney's Citizens Academy. This is another example of the Law School's commitment to add value to our community and society as a whole."

About two dozen people will be selected for the class. No background in law enforcement is required. Applicants will be considered in terms of their interest in federal law enforcement and their experience in community leadership activities.

"I thought all the speakers did a great job," said 2007 class member Bob Kobbeman, president of Capital City Bank.

"This was an outstanding course," said 2007 class member Michael George, a community volunteer. "I wish more people could participate."

"I would highly recommend the academy to everyone," said Mike Jackson, of the 2007 class. "I'm putting the word out."

Applications may be downloaded at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/ks/. The deadline for returning applications is Sept. 8. There is no charge for the academy, but participants must commit to being available at the designated times and attending all classes.

Classes will be taught by representatives from the U.S. Attorney's office, Washburn University School of Law, the FBI, the DEA, ATF, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Health and Human Services, the Postal Inspection Service, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the Internal Revenue Service, the Kansas Attorney General's office, the U.S. Marshal Service, the Federal Public Defender's office and the U.S. District Court.

Topics to be covered will include the following: