Citizens Academy
Citizens Academy
April 1 to June 10, 2025 ~ Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
District Attorney’s Jan Scully Conference Room ~ 906 G Street, Sacramento 95814 (MAP)
DEADLINE TO APPLY: MARCH 21, 2025
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 is March 21, 2025
Must be at least 18 years old to apply. Please complete and return the following forms.
1. Citizens Academy Application:
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Submit by electronic form HERE OR
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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:
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Sacramento Police Ride-Along Program Application HERE (if you live or work in the city of Sacramento), OR
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Sheriff Ride-Along Program Application HERE (if you live or work in the county of Sacramento)