During the first week of its recruitment drive, the Johnston Police Department received three applications from candidates seeking a place on the department's hiring list, Deputy Chief David DeCesare said on Sept. 8.

The applications — as well as those received before the deadline of Sept. 17 at noon — will form the basis of the department's hiring list after a lengthy review process.

Once the applications are filed, DeCesare explained that they'll be looked over for any potentially disqualifying information.

After that, successful applicants will be invited to an orientation for new officers, scheduled for Sept. 24. A written exam and agility tests are also part of the evaluation.

Recruits who pass those parts of the process will then undergo a background check, an oral board interview, and an in-person interview with Chief Richard Tamburini.

Depending on potential vacancies in the department, DeCesare said, applicants who earn spots on the hiring list may be chosen to attend the 22-week Rhode Island Municipal Police Academy.

"Having a person already tested on the local level and [being able to] just send their names up to the academy helps us," DeCesare explained.

The departent also posted its application online, allowing candidates to complete the paperwork before submitting it. (A copy of the online application is attached to this article.)

Candidates must bring their completed applications — with their signature in blue ink — to the polcie department, in person, by Sept. 17 at 12 p.m. A $50 nonrefundable application fee, in the form of a money order or certified check, is also required.

More information on the requirements are posted on the police department's application web page.