Burbank police academy to accommodate Armenian-language speakers, the hearing impaired

The Burbank Police Department has announced plans to begin offering its community academy program -- a behind-the-scenes look at police operations -- for Armenian-language speakers and the hearing impaired.

“Our administration is trying to open up as many doors to the community and trying to include everyone we can,” said Burbank Police Officer Joshua Kendrick.

Currently, the department only offers the program twice a year in English and Spanish.

Open to those who live and work in Burbank, the academy will cover the criminal justice system, police training, traffic control, patrol and detective functions, the air support unit and the Special Weapons and Tactics team.

Graduates are eligible to volunteer with the department.

The seven-week program for Armenian-language speakers and the hearing impaired kicks off Jan. 16, and runs every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Applicants are subject to a background check, police said. Applications are due by Jan. 9, but space is limited.

To apply, visit bit.ly/VzT5x5.

-- Alene Tchekmedyian, Times Community News

Follow Alene Tchekmedyian on Google+ and on Twitter: @atchek.