Albuquerque, N.M. – As part of Operation Engage, DEA is hosting its fourth annual Citizen’s Academy this coming May and is now accepting applications. The deadline to submit an application is Tuesday April 30 at 11:59 p.m.

The DEA Citizens Academy allows community leaders to gain an understanding of DEA’s mission and community awareness of the law enforcement and drug demand reduction efforts. Six 3-hour sessions will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on May 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, and 23. Planned course topics include an overview of DEA operations, a region-specific intelligence briefing, DEA laboratory operations, DEA air fleet operations, investigative trends, prescription drug diversion and abuse, warrant execution, law enforcement partnerships, demand reduction efforts, and Operation Engage. 

Classes are taught by DEA executives, Special Agents, Forensic Chemists, Intelligence Analysts, Diversion Investigators, and other DEA professionals.

Potential candidates must be business, civil, religious, journalists, or community leaders who are at least 21 years of age, have no prior felony convictions, live or work in northern New Mexico, pass a background check, and commit to all six sessions.

Those who have questions or would like to request and application can contact Michelle Rincon, Community Outreach Specialist, at Michelle.Rincon@dea.gov .