CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY If you’re a Mt. Lebanon resident or business owner, learn what happens behind the scenes in the police department in the Citizens Police Academy. The next academy begins March 15 and continues through May 17. Applications are available online or pick up a hard copy at the Public Safety Center, 555 Washington Road or the Municipal Building, 710 Washington Road. Classes will be at the Safety Center every Wednesday from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Sponsored by the Mt. Lebanon Police Association, the academy will cover such topics as: firearms, narcotics, K9, search and seizure, crime prevention, patrol, the criminal justice system, traffic stop demonstrations, use of force scenarios and a mock crime scene investigation. Participants also may do a ride-along with a patrol officer for a shift. The program is free.

STEPPING UP ENFORCEMENT Now that Look Up Lebo has blasted out information reminding drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to follow the safety rules and take responsibility for their actions, the Mt. Lebanon Police Department has announced it is going to begin targeted enforcement of traffic laws, especially in areas where crashes are happening more frequently. Our website has been updated with tips and reminders about commonly broken laws. Check it out.

HIRING Mt. Lebanon Police will be administering an entry level test to screen for police officer candidates this spring. Eligible candidates need to be at least 21 and have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. The police department doesn’t currently have openings but Chief Aaron Lauth anticipates having some in the near future. Test results will help build a database of applicants. Visit the police department website to learn how to apply.

AND RETIRING Lt. Steve Lane retired in January from the Mt. Lebanon Fire Department after 31 years in fire service, 24 of which he served here. He is now doing fire inspections with a private company.