The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for its 2023 Citizens’ Academy, the law enforcement agency announced.
The free program is designed to give participants an opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day operations of the sheriff’s office.
The academy begins Sept. 5 and meets for 10 sessions ending Oct. 24. The class will meet each Tuesday evening from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and on two Saturdays, Sept. 23 and Oct. 7, from 8:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Most classes meet at the sheriff’s office in Corvallis.
During the program, participants will gain insight into BCSO’s challenges and accomplishments. Most of the instructors are sworn deputies who share their experiences with the class.
The Citizens’ Academy covers all aspects of the sheriff’s responsibilities including law enforcement, emergency management, search and rescue, parole and probation, jail operations, support services and management of the office.
The Citizens’ Academy is not designed to train citizens as law enforcement personnel or to exercise law enforcement authority of any kind.
The academy is geared toward adults with no one under age 14 accepted. Applicants between the ages of 14 and 17 must have signed consent from a parent or legal guardian and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Organizers said the class typically fills up quickly so those interested should get in applications early. The deadline for applications is Aug. 30.
For more information and for links to the application and consent form for minors, go online to www.co.benton.or.us/sheriff/page/2023-citizens-academy. Forms can also be picked up in person at the Law Enforcement Building, 180 NW Fifth St., in Corvallis.
Those with questions can contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at 541-766-6858.