Ever wonder what happens at the Sheriff’s Office after someone gets arrested? Ever been in the backseat of a squad car? Ever seen a jury trial or had firearms training?
Now is your chance as the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the Citizens Academy, a six-week interactive program that provides an opportunity for citizens to become familiar with the daily operation and responsibilities of the Sheriff’s Office.
“This will be our third Citizens Academy Class,” said Sheriff Octavia Johnson. “We appreciate the commitment of each individual who takes this course. Graduates of the program have the knowledge and understanding of the duties and responsibilities of the Sheriff’s Office. Each one will be an ambassador within his/her community, educating others on the role of the Sheriff’s Office.”
Citizens’ Academy participants discover key components of the training and skills required for Sheriff Deputies to effectively perform their duties. The instruction is comprehensive, covering different areas of the Sheriff’s Office each week. Citizens attending the Academy are taught using multiple instructional methods including; lectures, interactive and hands-on instruction, mock scenarios and tours. Certified Sheriff’s Office Instructors conduct courses including a jail tour, mock trial, civil process ride-along, self defense and firearms training.
The program is designed to develop positive relations between deputies and the community through education. The goal of the program is to create a growing nucleus of responsible, well-informed citizens familiar with the services the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office provides to the community. It also demonstrates the differences between the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department and explains the importance of having both available to the citizens of Roanoke.
The program is offered free of charge to citizens, 21 years of age or older and will be held on consecutive Tuesday nights beginning September 10, 2013 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. To apply, contact Academy Coordinator, Sergeant Nicole Butterworth at 540-853-6775 or [email protected].
– Carla M. Bream
