Sheriff Crouch Opens Citizen Academy Applications

Sangamon County Residents interested in learning more about law enforcement operations and public safety will have an opportunity to do so through the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Police Academy, a new 10-week community engagement program scheduled to begin this August.

The Citizen Police Academy is designed to provide participants with an inside look at the day-to-day responsibilities, training, and services provided by the Sheriff’s Office. Through classroom instruction, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and open discussion, participants will hear directly from deputies, investigators, supervisors, and specialized units while gaining a broader understanding of modern law enforcement.

Classes will meet every other Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. beginning August 18 and continuing through December 22, 2026, at the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the program was created to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the community by increasing understanding of agency operations, encouraging transparency and communication, and providing insight into the decision-making and responsibilities carried out by deputies and staff. The academy also aims to encourage community involvement in public safety initiatives while fostering mutual respect and trust.

Instruction will cover a range of topics and operational areas across the department. Planned sessions include introductions from command staff and a facility tour, an overview of hiring, promotion, and field training processes, patrol operations, criminal investigations and crime scene processing, K-9 and drone demonstrations, crisis negotiations and tactical response, and corrections and jail operations. Program organizers note that topics and demonstrations may vary depending on instructor availability and operational needs.

Sheriff Paula Crouch said the program is intended to provide community members with opportunities to better understand the work being done across the Sheriff’s Office while creating meaningful dialogue between residents and law enforcement.

“The Citizen Police Academy gives participants an opportunity to see firsthand the responsibilities, training, and decision-making involved in serving our community each day,” Crouch said. “We hope those who participate leave with a greater understanding of public safety and stronger connections with the people who serve Sangamon County.”

The program is open to individuals who are at least 21 years old and either reside in, work within, or attend school in Sangamon County. Applicants must consent to and successfully complete a limited background investigation before acceptance into the academy.

Participation is free of charge.

Class size is limited to 15 participants and applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested residents are encouraged to submit an application early to reserve a spot.