The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is proud to offer the community an inside look at our law enforcement practices through our Citizens Academy. The program includes eight sessions, once a week, designed to provide participants with an overview of the Office.
At the inaugural Citizens Academy earlier this year, participants gained insight into the Sheriff’s Office operations. Attendees reviewed fiscal details and toured the civil office and courthouse. They also visited the Corrections Division, meeting IGNITE inmates and exploring rehabilitation efforts in the jail.
The academy provided a broad overview of the Criminal Division, with presentations and demonstrations from the K-9 Unit, School Resource Officers, Dispatch, Investigators, and the Dog Warden. Participants watched a Drone Unit demonstration and an Active Shooter Drill, learned about the Special Response Team, and examined the work of Cold Case Investigators.
Classes are taught by WCSO administration, deputies, and specialized civilian employees. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to interact with Sheriff Warden and other members of the Office. Throughout the Academy, classes are conducted in various formats. The sessions may include demonstrations, discussions, lectures, and interactive exercises. There is no cost involved, and all class materials are provided to participants.
The next Citizen Academy begins on October 28, 2026. Registration for the October Citizens Academy opens on September 23 at 6 p.m. Click here to signup now: https://www.washingtoncountysheriff.org/ca-signup
We will admit only the first 21 participants. Registration for the January Citizens Academy earlier this year reached capacity within 24 hours!
Requirements:
Applicants must be residents of Washington County, Ohio.
No prior criminal convictions are permitted, as a background check will be performed.
If you have been chosen, please attend every session.
Schedule: (8 different sessions)
Wednesday, October 28th, 6-8pm Wednesday, November 4th, 6-8pm Wednesday, November 11th, 6-8pm Wednesday, November 18th, 6-8 pm Wednesday, December 2nd, 6-8pm Wednesday, December 9th, 6-8pm Wednesday, December 16th, 6-8pm Wednesday, January 6th, 2027, 6-8pm
Sessions will take place in the Marietta area. Each meeting covers a distinct subject and may extend beyond 8 p.m.
