Pocono News Section

Scranton Police Officers to Take Spanish Lessons

Scranton Police Officers to Take Spanish Lessons - Monday, April 7, 2008 at 3:19PM EST

Reported by: David DeCosmo
Monday, Apr 7, 2008 @03:19pm EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- Nearly 40 Scranton Police officers have signed up to take weekly Spanish lessons that are being offered at police headquarters.

The course was specifically designed for police work and is funded through a $2, 600 grant provided by the Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Program. It deals with common conversation used in situations such as traffic stops or requests for information or help.

The city has a growing population of Spanish-speaking residents. Connie James runs a hair styling salon in South Scranton. She says the police decision to teach Spanish to interested officers is "a great idea especially with the growing
population of Hispanics in the area."