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Fort Walton Beach Police to offer free Citizens’ Police Academy starting in February

The eight-week program gives residents an inside look at law enforcement operations, from crime scene investigations to K-9 units.
Graduates of a previous Fort Walton Beach Police Department Citizens' Police Academy display their certificates of completion alongside officers and a police K-9. (Photo courtesy of Fort Walton Beach Police Department)

The Fort Walton Beach Police Department is inviting community members to spend eight weeks learning what happens behind the badge.

  • The department’s Citizens’ Police Academy begins Feb. 5 and runs through March 26, with sessions held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Thursday. The program is free and open to anyone 18 or older who lives or works in Okaloosa County.

Participants will learn about police training, crime scene investigations, DUI procedures, community policing, patrol operations, K-9 operations and traffic homicide investigations. The program also encourages participants to join an officer for a ride-along during a patrol shift.

Seating is limited. Those interested can contact Master Police Officer Marcus Montgomery at mmontgomery@fwb.org for more information or to apply.

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Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: July 16, 2026
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“Isnt this a one PERCENT sales tax? Seems that a one cent sales tax means one cent on each sale... only a penny. One percent is 1/100 of the total...”
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“I went back and looked for settings and see there is a way to change the background color. I commented too soon.”
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“When the background color of the picture in the jigsaw puzzle is exactly the same color as the background of the playing field it makes it practically impossible to see...”
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“A VAT. What a concept. Then you're only taxed if you spend money. What a great idea!”
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“I’m so sorry the system is failing the ones who need it most. Contact your local senator asap and tell them your situation and all the places you’ve contacted. Also...”
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“In 7 years, the assessed value of my own home has nearly doubled. They are making more money even if mil rate stays same or decreases .05 as it is...”
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“What about their own healthcare center that is being paid for by tax dollars? The new one beside Okaloosa Tech center off Lewis Turner Blvd.”
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“I would love to see all the power and other lines off Scenic Gulf Drive! They are so ugly and intrusive to the view of sunsets, the beach, etc. but...”
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