Manteca residents have an opportunity to learn firsthand about how police respond to — and investigate — crime.

They can do so by signing up for the Manteca Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy.

The free program is on Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. from Sept. 25 through Nov. 6.

Applications available on the department website, by email or in the police station lobby need to be turned in by the end of Thursday, Sept. 18.

The-program is designed to provide an overview of law enforcement and to learn how officers do various aspects of their jobs through various activities and discussions.

Questions can be directed to Sgt. Josh Sweeten at jsweeten@manteca.gov or calling (209) 456-8285.