Class gives public a chance to make a case

Fans of courtroom dramas, future crime fighters or even those curious about the ins and outs of the criminal justice system can learn more at a program that offers an in-depth look at the legal arena.

Applications are being accepted for the citizens prosecutor academy, a two-month program that's sponsored by the Kane County state's attorney's office.

Participants in the sessions meet once a week and learn about topics such as drug court, victims' rights, domestic violence, homicide, traffic court, crime scene investigation and the death penalty.

The classes are taught by prosecutors, and at the end of the course, participants take on the role of attorneys in a mock criminal trial.

"Participants can expect to learn the nuts and bolts of the criminal justice system," prosecutor Lark Cowart said, "as well as an understanding that real law and order is not like what you see on television."

The academy takes members on first-come basis and is open to anyone 16 and older who lives, works or attends school in Kane County.

The free classes are limited to 25 and run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays starting April 3 in the Kane County Judicial Center, at Peck Road and Route 38 in St. Charles.

To sign up or receive more information, call Cowart at (630) 406-7331 or e-mail cowartlark@co.kane.il.us.