Citizens' Academy

You'll have the opportunity to learn about a variety of topics from investigations to marine patrol, from parole and probation to jail operations.

You'll take a tour of the Sheriff's Office and of the Benton County Jail, try your hand at a simulated incident response, and see a patrol K9 demonstration.

Classes will be a mix of instruction, discussion and participation.

The Benton County Sheriff's Office Citizens' Academy is offered in the fall, usually in September and October. There are eight Tuesday evening sessions from 6:30p - 9:30p and two Saturday sessions from 8:30a - 2:20p. Specific dates will be found in the current application and are usually announced in the Spring.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) invites applications from community members of all ethnic, cultural and civic groups. Both men and women are encouraged to apply and there are no age restrictions for adults.

Applicants between the ages of 14 and 17 must have a signed consent from a parent or legal guardian and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The Academy is geared toward adults and we do not accept those under age 14.

As part of the application process, you must agree to authorize the BCSO to conduct a criminal history check. Felony convictions or other circumstances that would make participation inappropriate may be cause for denial of admission.

There are no formal graduation requirements unless you are attending Citizens' Academy for college credit. To successfully complete the program for college credit you must attend both Saturday sessions and at least 6 out of the 8 Tuesday evening sessions.

Although many Citizens' Academy participants choose to volunteer with the Sheriff's Office after their Academy experience, there is no requirement to do so. We hope that you will share your experiences and what you learn with your neighbors and friends.

Complete the Citizens' Academy Application and submit it to the Sheriff's Office.