Bryan Stewart

Richmond County Daily Journal

The fifth year of the Sheriff’s Citizen's Academy begins Sept. 8 at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and is open to anyone over 18 interested in the program.

“It has been a tremendous success in demonstrating what the Sheriff’s Office does,” said Capt. Robbie Taylor of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.

This year, the Citizen Academy is an eight-week program hosted by the Sheriff’s Office to demonstrates what the department accomplishes on a daily basis and reveals some of the inner workings of the department.

The program is open to anyone 18 and over and requires a background check during the application process.

According to Capt. Taylor, the academy acts as an educational tool and presentation for the law enforcement in the area. Citizens in attendance will learn about several aspects of the Sheriff’s Office, including the narcotics team and district attorney’s office.

During the program, participants will discover what it takes to be a part of a law enforcement agency and how many facets of the system function, like the county judicial system.

“It’s also a good opportunity, as a citizen, to offer suggestions,” Capt. Taylor said.

The Special Response Team, the tactical squad for the Sheriff’s Office, will hold a demonstration for those participating. An exhibition by the K-9 unit is also scheduled during the eight-week program.

The instructors will take attendees on a tour of the Richmond County jail, learn about the criminal investigation unit and receive a lesson on how the judicial system functions.

After the conclusion of the program, the participants are eligible for a ride-a-long with the Sheriff’s Office and earn a graduation ceremony and a dinner.

The academy is limited to 20 to 25 citizens.

To apply for the Sheriff’s Citizen Academy, complete an application which can be found on the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office website at www.richmondcountysheriff.net and e-mail or mail completed applications to Capt. Taylor.