19 September, 2018
NEWTON – The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office will be hosting a program designed specifically for adults with developmental disabilities in Newton next month, Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian has announced.
The Special Citizens Academy is a four-week program that provides participants with education on topics such as internet safety and awareness, fire safety and first aid, and scam prevention. Academy attendees will also receive demonstrations from the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) K-9 Unit, SWAT officers and Community Command Center staff.
“We offer a variety of specialized programs here at the MSO, and the Special Citizens Academy is a meaningful way to engage with those in the disability community so they know we are here to help,” said Sheriff Koutoujian. “For those interested in public safety, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn how law enforcement professionals work to keep them safe.”
The MSO is hosting the Academy in partnership with the City of Newton, the JCC Greater Boston, and Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Boston. Participants will meet at JCC Greater Boston on 333 Nahanton Street from 6:00 – 8:00pm on the following dates: Wednesday, October 3; Tuesday, October 9; Tuesday, October 16; and Tuesday, October 23.
Special Citizens Academies have been held in Belmont and twice at the MSO Training Academy in Chelmsford. Over 70 participants have graduated through the program; interested participants and caregivers can contact Community Affairs Director Ken Doucette at 978-495-7408 to register for this or a future Academy.
The Special Citizens Academy is offered alongside other MSO programs in Newton and surrounding communities including the popular Youth Public Safety Academy and ongoing scam prevention presentations.
