Sheriffs Citizens Academy

The next Sheriffs Citizens Academy will in start February 23, 2027.

 THE 2028 APPLICATION PROCESS WILL OPEN NOVEMBER 23, 2026

Academy Overview

Since 1997, SCA continues to provide interested Henderson County citizens with an academic-style, interactive forum consisting of an exceptional in-depth course to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the Sheriff’s Office mission, challenges, initiatives, and operations.  The course is designed to explore the “Citizen and Law Enforcement Partnership” in Henderson County. By doing so, the course expands the Office of Sheriff’s understanding of citizen’s concerns and perceptions. It creates improved community relations, develops positive perspectives, and encourages positive and proactive interaction.

Program Format

The Tuesday evening program consists of 13, three-hour deputy led instructional sessions held weekly in the Law Enforcement Center. 

· Presentations and videos 

· Interactive sessions 

· Discussion and Q&A 

· Hands-on demonstrations 

·  Guided Tours 

·  Involvement and FUN!

Curriculum

There are over 35 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 or by email at scateam@hendersoncountync.gov . 

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

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.

A non-refundable program fee of $40 covers all class materials, student handbook, and graduation festivities.

Open to all Henderson County residents . 18 years of age or older.

All 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. 

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