State Attorney Hosting Free Citizens Academy About Criminal Justice System

State Attorney Brian Haas has opened the application process for the second annual Citizens Academy.

The Citizens Academy allows residents in the 10th Judicial Circuit to learn details of the criminal justice system during an eight week class from March 12 to April 30. Classes will be in the courthouse in Bartow from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday. The deadline to submit applications is Feb. 28.

"We're excited to welcome residents who want to learn about trial preparation, the cases we prosecute from misdemeanor to felony, and details of what occurs during a trial," Haas said.

Those interested in applying to the Citizens Academy can go to http://www.sao10.com. There is no cost to attend classes.