A deep-felt interest in community relations compelled Elizabeth Boozer into signing up for the free Brookfield citizen police academy being offered this spring.

The academy is a 10-week evening program that offers residents a peek inside the duties of the local department. It also helps residents interested in making their community a better place to live.

"I'd be interested in helping out any way that I can. With this training, I can help in the time of a crisis," said Mrs. Boozer, of Brookfield.

The former school teacher said she has embraced her community and involved herself in many aspects of it all her life.

"I like getting involved," she said.

On the first day of classes, Andy Knapp, 50, of Brookfield, grabbed a seat in the front row. He said he was interested in seeing how the behind-the-scenes action is done. Knapp works as a diesetter at a stamping plant in Kinsman, but said he's always had an interest in law enforcement and even considered doing that type of work at one time.

He said he signed up for the last class in 2001, but wasn't able to participate because of a conflict.

"It's good to finally participate in it," he said.

About 20 people elected to get involved this year, with one student returning from the first class to experience the program --which runs through May 15 -- again.

Brookfield Police Chief Daniel Faustino said the class aims to strengthen communications between the community and the department by exchanging ideas, encouragement and understanding between the two parties. It can also help residents interested in starting a neighborhood watch.

During the first night of classes, Faustino gave the cadets a brief overview of what was to come, including a history of the department, its mission and requirements. The academy covers such topics as traffic law, domestic violence, drunken driving enforcement, court procedures, evidence collection, drug recognition and accident investigations. Topics are presented by different policemen on the force.

Ride-alongs with policemen will also be offered for those who want a hands-on experience, Faustino said.

The academy is sponsored by the Brookfield Police Department and funded by a federal grant and local donations.

For information about the Brookfield Township Citizen Police Academy, call (330) 448-6960 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays.