I am excited to announce that the Wahkiakum County Sheriff's Office is offering an eight-week Citizen’s Academy at the end of March.

It has been several years since we have put on this very informative, interesting, and enjoyable course. Our academy mission is to enhance community partnerships by increasing our citizens’ understanding of the criminal justice system through education.

The class takes place in Cathlamet on Fridays from 6-9 p.m. with a graduation celebration at the end. The topics covered during the academy include criminal investigations, patrol procedures, 911 overview, corrections, judicial processes, firearms safety, use of force, mental health issues in public safety, and numerous other relevant sheriff's office topics.

This year we have worked out transportation free of charge for Westend folks through Wahkiakum On the Move. We will pick up attendees at Johnson Park and return you after class on Friday nights. Look for the yellow brochure mailing for more information or pick one up at the Sheriff's Office.

Class size is limited so don’t wait to register! A limited number of students will be permitted to attend. The deadline to turn in your registration is March 16. If you have any questions please call Raedyn Grasseth at 360-795-3242 ext. 2 or Undersheriff Gary Howell ext. 6.

A sophisticated IRS scam is going around this year. Thieves are using personal and bank information to file someone’s tax return. Then they call and pretend to be the IRS asking for the money back or threatening to arrest you. Remember: The IRS will never call you or send you an email! They will send you correspondence in the mail if they must to contact you.

If you receive a tax refund check that you did not file, don’t cash the check. If you receive a deposit in your bank account that you didn’t file, don’t do anything with the funds. Instead contact the IRS immediately and follow their instructions for returning the funds and filing a report.

To file a report of internet fraud, go online at: http://www.consumer.FTC.gov, or call 1-877-FTC-HELP.

We look forward to hosting a full class at the Citizen’s Academy. Have a safe and pleasant spring ahead! Fax 360.795.3145.