Sheriff's Citizen Academy

An In-Depth Program Providing Education and Crime Prevention Skills Through Personal Involvement

The next Sheriff's Citizen Academy will begin Jan 31, 2023. 

*Application process now CLOSED*

Academy Overview

The objective of the Sheriff's Citizens Academy is to educate the public on the duties, requirements, and responsibilities of the Office of Sheriff in Henderson County. The curriculum will also focus on Sheriff's Office programs, crime prevention and partnerships with other public safety organizations. The class is for every citizen (age 21 and older) in the county that seeks to enhance his or her knowledge of our county’s law enforcement and thus become a more informed and supportive citizen.

Program Format

There are thirteen classes scheduled, all of which take place on Tuesday evening and start promptly at 6:00 p.m. and end at ~ 9:00 p.m. All classes are held in the Sheriff's Office training room. Class size is limited to 30 students and classes will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Interactive sessions
• Simulations
• Demonstrations
• Hands-on experience
• Presentations 
• Involvement and FUN!

Curriculum

Class topics include, but are not limited to: Sheriff’s Office overview, criminal investigations, school resource officers, crime prevention and suppression, frauds & scams, personal safety, 911 communications, 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 class will tour law enforcement related facilities, enjoy hands-on demonstrations, and get a close-up look 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 students to ask questions and talk with the aforementioned personnel. It will be an educational and fun experience.

How to sign up?

Pick up an application in the HCSO lobby.

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

Applications MUST be received two week prior to the start of the program.
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 21 years of age or older.

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

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

Sheriff's Citizens Academy Director:

Barry Brown

Tel: 828.694.2742