Citizens Academy

April 2 to June 11, 2024
Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Sacramento Police Department’s Public Safety Center ~ 5770 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento

DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 22, 2024

2023 Graduates

What Citizens Academy Graduates Say…

“It’s a wonderful program, we found out about it through Nextdoor. It helps educate you and get you involved. It bridges the gap between the community and law enforcement.” – Sylvia Franklin

“I loved how open everyone was, it was very transparent. We also loved the Sheriff Department ride along and the different tours we got to take.” – Jenny Franklin

“I really enjoyed this program. As a college student, I wanted to be a part of the law enforcement program and I think this program gave me a better understanding of the District Attorney, the Defense Attorney, and law enforcement.”  – Zabrina Torres

“The Citizens Academy provided an informative, candid and revealing look at the inner workings of our law enforcement and criminal justice systems.  We learned from knowledgeable insiders and were given a unique, behind-the-scenes view of the challenges they face every day. Every class was fascinating.” – Joe Selewicz

The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office hosts the Citizen Academy in partnership with the Sacramento Police Department, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and Sacramento County Probation Department.

The 10-week program is designed to engage citizens from all backgrounds and communities in discussion about public safety and criminal justice issues. Participants learn about our local criminal justice system – including the roles of law enforcement, prosecutors and the courts. Topics include the anatomy of a criminal case; specialized areas of prosecution; CSI and crime lab analysis; use of force; innovative programs and partnerships; and community-focused public safety partnerships and initiatives. There is also an opportunity for a field trip to the District Attorney’s Crime Lab and Sacramento Police Department’s 911 Communications Center.

Representatives from the District Attorney’s Office, Probation Department, Public Defender’s Office, law enforcement, the judiciary and community organizations will provide information, answer questions and address community concerns.

Download Brochure – includes tentative schedule and topics

Applications for Citizens Academy – Deadline to Apply is March 22, 2024

Must be at least 18 years old to apply.  Please complete and return the following forms.

1. Citizens Academy Application:

  • Submit by electronic form HERE OR

  • Submit by email, mail or fax HERE (complete all pages and EVERY question unless “optional”)

2. Ride-Along Form (Optional) – Choose ONE of the following two forms (front and back of the form).  First read the Police Orientation Form HERE:

  • Sacramento Police Ride-Along Program Application HERE (if you live or work in the city of Sacramento), OR

  • Sheriff Ride-Along Program Application HERE (if you live or work in the county of Sacramento)

Return the completed application and Ride-Along form if applicable by mail, personal delivery, fax or email to:

Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office
Attn: Kristy Lao 
901 G Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
FAX: 916.321.2237
laok@sacda.org

Please answer every question unless specified as optional. Incomplete applications may result in a delay or rejection of your application. The deadline for submitting applications will not be waived.

Notification of Acceptance

You will be notified by mail and email (if you provide an email address) of your acceptance to the Academy. You will also receive information about your Ride-Along at that time. In the event we are unable to offer you a space at this time, we will notify you by mail.

Attendance Requirement

The Citizens Academy is an accelerated program with a full agenda for each class session. Missing more than two classes will result in a significant gap in the education process. Participants absent more than two days will not receive a graduation certificate.

For questions or more information, please contact Kristy Lao at 916.874.5251 or LaoK@sacda.org.