Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Police Academy
The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Police Academy is designed to provide community members with an inside look at the Sheriff’s Office’s law enforcement operations, training, and public safety services. This interactive program gives participants the opportunity to learn directly from deputies, investigators, supervisors, and specialized units while building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community we serve.
The Citizen Police Academy is a 10-week program that meets every-other Tuesday evening at the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. Sessions combine classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and open discussion to provide participants with a realistic understanding of the responsibilities and challenges faced by today’s law enforcement professionals.
The goals of our program are to:
- Strengthen partnerships between the Sheriff’s Office and the community
- Foster shared understanding, promote transparency, and open communication
- Increase understanding of law enforcement procedures and operations
- Provide insight into the decision-making and responsibilities of deputies
- Encourage community involvement in public safety initiatives
- Foster mutual respect and trust between citizens and law enforcement
Topics of instruction include:
- Command Staff Introductions and Facility Tour
- Hiring, Promotion, and Field Training Process
- Patrol Operations
- Criminal Investigations and crime scene processing
- Demonstration of K-9 and Drone Operations
- Crisis Negotiations and Tactical Response Unit
- Corrections and Jail Operations
Topics and demonstrations may vary based on instructor availability and operational needs.
Who Can Apply:
The Citizen Police Academy is open to residents who are interested in learning more about law enforcement and public safety. Applicants must meet all program eligibility requirements and successfully complete the application process and pass a limited background investigation. The program is being offered free of charge.
Requirements:
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Be a resident of, work within, or attend school in Sangamon County
- Applicants must consent to and pass a limited background investigation
Program Schedule:
- Duration: 10 Weeks
- Meeting Schedule: Every-other Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., starting August 18th – December 22nd, 2026.
- Location: Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office
- Cost: Free of charge
Download the application and Apply Today
Class size is limited to 15 and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Join us for an engaging and informative experience that strengthens the partnership between the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office and the community we proudly serve.