Immigrants get introduction to America's cops on the beat

This program should be in every city: immigrants are being educated on how the police force in their community is there to help them, not like in their old countries. - - Donna Poisl

This citizens academy is tailored to the questions and life experiences unique to people who are new to the U.S.

By MARIA ELENA BACA, Star Tribune

Imagine if your formative years were spent where police don't have uniforms or squad cars, where a traffic stop can be dangerous or even fatal, or where violations require immediate payment -- to the officer.

Some new immigrants share such a background. In response, a Twin Cities program has taken a familiar concept -- the citizens academy, classes where civilians can learn about law enforcement -- and customized it for immigrants, to strengthen ties between them and police. Now, the program has become an international model.
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