Sheriffs Citizens Academy

The next Sheriffs Citizens Academy will begin 2026.

*Application process for 2025 is now closed.

Check back for updates for the next Citizens Academy scheduled for 2026.

Academy Overview

Since 1997, the objective of the Sheriff’s Citizens Academy has been to educate the public on the duties, requirements, and responsibilities of the Office of Sheriff in Henderson County. The curriculum focuses on the Sheriff's Office programs, operations, and initiatives to include crime prevention and partnerships with other public safety organizations. The program is for every citizen in the county (age 18 and older) that seeks to enhance his or her knowledge and support of our county’s law enforcement. It showcases the Citizen and Law Enforcement Partnership here in Henderson County.

Program Format

The Tuesday evening program consists of 13, three-hour deputy led instructional sessions held weekly in the Law Enforcement Center. Classes start promptly at 6 p.m. and last until approximately 9 p.m. Class size is limited to 30 students and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

·  Interactive sessions 

·  Discussion and Q&A 

·  Presentations and videos 

·  Hands-on demonstrations 

·  Simulations

·  Guided Tours 

·  Involvement and FUN!

Curriculum

There are over 30 law enforcement topics discussed that include: the Sheriff’s Office overview, criminal investigations, school resource officers, crime prevention and suppression, frauds & scams, personal safety, 911 communications, patrol, emergency preparedness, K-9 teams, animal enforcement, bomb squad & SWAT teams, detention, civil process, N.C. Courts, courthouse security, drug prevention programs and the 'Volunteers in Partnership' program.

The course includes not only tours of law enforcement-related facilities, but also hands-on demonstrations and close-up peeks at the vehicles and gear used in the daily operations. 

Participants will also meet many professional officers, office personnel and the Sheriff’s Office leadership team. There will be opportunities for participants to ask questions and talk with Henderson County’s finest. It will be an informative, educational, and fun experience.

How to sign up?

·  Pick up an application in the HCSO Law Enforcement Center lobby.

·  Download an application and return the completed form to the Sheriff's Office.

Applications MUST be received at least two weeks prior to the start of the program.

A non-refundable program fee of $30 covers all class materials, student handbook, and graduation festivities.

Applicants will be screened through the NCIC system and those with a significant history of problems will not be accepted. The Sheriff has complete discretion in this matter. 

Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

Check the Sheriff's Office Website, HCSO Facebook page, Instagram, mobile app, and local newspapers for upcoming Citizens Academy programs and information.

Henderson County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Sheriff's Citizens Academy
100 North Grove Street
Hendersonville NC 28792-5027

Sheriff's Citizens Academy Director:

Tel: 828.694.2742, leave a message