Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials graduated 16 Santa Clarita residents for its 10th Community Academy class, officials said Thursday.

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The introductory six-week community law enforcement course began Nov. 11, with meetings taking place throughout the Santa Clarita Valley intended to give residents a better understanding of how the Sheriff’s Department operates.

“It gave a snapshot about what we do at the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, and for the department in general,” said Deputy Josh Dubin of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, who also spoke to the class.

Capt. Roosevelt Johnson brought the concept to the Santa Clarita Valley after watching its success at other station’s, he said in a past interview.

The academy class was taught about nearly every aspect of the Sheriff’s Station, including patrol procedures, jail operations, detective bureau investigations, gang and narcotic enforcement and how residents can become involved with helping deputies keep an eye on crime by organizing a neighborhood watch.

“It showed a lot of different aspects of the Sheriff’s Department and it was very interesting,” said Ken Chase, who’s a Sulphur Springs School District governing board member who was a member of the academy’s inaugural class.

The most educational parts for Chase was the ride-along, when he spent time with a deputy on patrol, and the visit to a maximum security facility at the Pitchess Detention Center, he said.

The class’ participants were given an opportunity to talk to the inmates if they chose to, he said, and educated about Miranda rights, searches and other Sheriff’s Department procedures.

Interested community members wanting to participate in the next academy to begin February 2015 should contact Deputy Fanny Lapkin via email [email protected].

There is limited space available and only 30 applicants will be accepted for the next academy.

Applicants must be 18 years of age before the start of the academy and must live or work in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Applicants must not be involved in any criminal processes or have any felony convictions.

All applications are subject to approval of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

For any questions or additional information, please contact Deputy Fanny Lapkin at (661) 799-5160 or email [email protected]