The average person views law enforcement personnel in a singular role, such as issuing traffic tickets or arresting criminals. Very few have been exposed to the training required to become a deputy, the custody function, investigations, specialized teams, such as S.W.A.T., Hostage Negotiators, Bomb Technicians, etc.

The Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department is proud to present the Sheriff's Citizen Academy 2000-1. During the Citizen Academy, attendees will get a view of who we are, how we operate, and what services the Sheriff's Department provides. It has been shown that Citizen Academies do much to foster a mutual trust between law enforcement and the residents they serve.

The Santa Barbara Sheriff's Citizen Academy consists of a curriculum of 10 weeks in length, meeting one night per week, 3 hours each session. Academy classes are taught by specially selected "experts in the field." The classes are held at the Sheriff's Headquarters or the Sheriff's Training Center, with field trips to other Sheriff's facilities throughout the course.

This program gives a fair overview of selected topics. The goal of the program is not to convert citizens into law enforcement personnel, but to present law enforcement in a manner which will dispel public misunderstandings and promote valuable and lasting relationships. The main "message" for participants is that Deputy Sheriffs and Police Officers are dedicated and professional public servants whose concern for the people they serve is at the heart of everything they do.

Though the idea of a citizen academy is not new, the first one originating in England in the early 70's, the idea is more pertinent today than ever - maintain a good relationship with the public by involving citizens in crime prevention efforts.

The academy classes will be held at the Sheriff's Department Headquarters in Santa Barbara, and will be held from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, for nine consecutive weeks. The academy will culminate with a graduation ceremony and barbecue on the weekend following the completion of the weekly classes.

An application to attend the Sheriff's Citizen Academy may be picked up at the Sheriff's Headquarters, 4434 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, or you may request an application be mailed to you by calling the Sheriff's headquarters at 805-681-4100 M-F 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Class size is limited to 30 persons and application is restricted to persons 21 years of age or older. For applications to attend future Sheriff's Citizen Academy please contact Sgt. Brad McVay.