Citizen´s Academy
What Is It?
The Citizen's Academy was developed to provide a better understanding between citizens and the sheriff's office through education. The academy has been expanded to include a variety of
members of the criminal justice system. Information is provided to academy participants about a wide variety of law enforcement functions by the personnel who perform the services.
Discussions between the citizens and sheriff's deputies create an understanding that citizens can take back to their communities. Participants are expected to share the realistic view of the
sheriff's office and other departments in the justice system with other citizens to improve the efficiency of law enforcement in the county.
Purpose
The purpose of the program is to provide information to Whatcom County citizens so they can make informed judgments about the criminal justice system. Proper understanding can dispel common
suspicions and misconceptions and increase police-community cooperation. The sheriff's office, in return, becomes more aware of the feelings and concerns of the community from the citizens.
What Topics Are Covered?
Classes will include criminal investigations, patrol, K-9, crime prevention, emergency management, use of force, evidence procedures, traffic enforcement, search and rescue, firearms
training, personnel, and the drug task force. Additionally, instructors from other agencies involved in criminal justice will present classes on corrections, juvenile corrections, 911
dispatch, the prosecutor's office, public defenders, and the court system.
The Details
The academy meets on Wednesday evenings for 3 hours. Each academy session runs for 10 weeks and is limited to 25 participants. The academy requires a substantial commitment. Participants
are required to attend nine of the ten sessions to successfully complete the academy and receive a Certificate of Completion. There is no charge for the academy and all materials will be
provided.
How To Apply
PARTICIPANTS MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. Younger applicants may
be considered on a case-by-case basis. Fill out the application below
(in pdf format) and return it to the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office
either
by mail or in person.
Citizen´s Academy
application 
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