What is the class atmosphere like?

Participants are often full of questions and present a positive atmosphere. By the end of class, many participants have made new friends.

The BCSO Citizens’ Academy gives you the chance to learn about — and gain a better appreciation for — the challenges and accomplishments of your Benton County Sheriff’s Office.

The goal is to create a safer community through a better understanding and partnership between Benton County residents and the Sheriff’s Office. The Citizens’ Academy does not train citizens as law enforcement personnel or give them law enforcement authority of any kind.

You will explore a wide range of topics — from investigations to marine patrol, and from parole and probation to jail operations.

You will also tour the Sheriff’s Office and the Benton County Jail, take a jet boat ride, and see a patrol K9 demonstration, along with several other demonstrations and tours. Classes combine instruction, discussion, and hands-on participation.