LA PLATA, Md. – The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for its 2018 Citizens Police Academy (CPA) class, set to begin in September. This 12-week program will begin on September 19, 2018, and will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. through December 12, 2018, with the exception of Wednesday, November 21. The classes will be held in various locations, to include the CCSO Headquarters, District 3 Station, Community Services Annex, Crime Lab, Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, and the Charles County Courthouse.

“This will be our third year of hosting the Citizens Police Academy, and we could not be more excited to host another class,” said Sheriff Troy Berry. “The CPA has become one of our strongest programs and has paid dividends in strengthening our police/community relations. The partnership continues even after class members graduate and join the CPA Alumni Association, which has shown outstanding support to the Sheriff’s Office.” 

Participants will learn about a wide range of topics including:
•           Patrol Procedures
•           Narcotics Investigations
•           Forensic Evidence
•           Criminal Law
•           Juvenile Issues
•           Use of Force
•           Criminal Investigations
•           Search and Seizure

Participants will get hands-on experiences to include a Firearms Training Simulator (FATS) and crime scene processing. They will also have the opportunity to ride with a police officer and to experience policing from an officer’s perspective. Participation in the Ride-along Program is not required but is strongly encouraged.

The Citizens Police Academy is a valuable opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning more about the realities of policing. Individuals who wish to apply will be subject to a background check. This program is free of charge. There are a limited number of seats available, so anyone interested in participating in the CPA should submit their application as soon as possible. 

Additional information and applications for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy can be found on our website at www.ccso.us/citizens-police-academy. Applications are due no later than August 31, 2018, and should be mailed to: 

Charles County Sheriff’s Office
6915 Crain Highway
PO Box 189
La Plata, MD 20646
Attn: Human Resources

Additional questions about the program or application process should be directed to Captain Kevin Leahy at 301-609-6541.