2019 Citizen Academy Graduates

“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

April 5, 2022 to June 14, 2022
Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
via Zoom

The deadline for submitting application is March 22, 2022

The 10-week Citizens Academy is held each spring in an effort to provide improved understanding of the criminal justice system.  Participants receive an overview of the criminal justice system including the roles and challenges of law enforcement, attorneys, and the courts.

The academy was created to improve communication, foster a better understanding and develop relationships between members of the criminal justice system and our citizens, including those from different ethnic, cultural and faith-based communities. Since the first academy in 2002, there have been 20 graduating academies with a total of more than 1,100 participants.

Click here for brochure with class outline.

Applications for Citizens Academy –

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

1. Citizens Academy Application (complete all 3 pages and EVERY question unless “optional” and mail or fax)

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:

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

• Sheriff Ride-Along Program Application (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.