Submitted Report
The Hays County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy is now accepting applications for the 2020 class to start on March 5. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy is a 45-hour program designed to give the residents of Hays County a working knowledge of the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and the criminal justice system. This free program includes 12 weeks of instruction by HCSO staff and other guest speakers. Classes are held on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hays County Sheriff’s Office on Uhland Road in San Marcos.
The objective of the academy is to build a better understanding between residents and the Sheriff’s Office through education. The academy will help increase public awareness, dispel suspicions and misconceptions, and increase HCSO and community relations and rapport. The instructors of this academy are supervisors, deputies and correction officers who work in the areas being taught, and their training will give participants insight into the day-to-day operations of the HCSO.
Students will have the opportunity to tour the Hays County Jail, Communications Center, Juvenile Detention Center and the Government Center. Students will also have an opportunity to ride along with a deputy as an observer during a regular patrol shift.
Class size is limited to 25 people per class so apply early. Applications may be obtained in person at the Sheriff’s Office or by emailing Deputy Stephen Traeger at [email protected] or download the application from the website, http://www.co.hays.tx.us/sheriff.aspx. Applications must be received on or before Feb. 21.
Those persons with felony convictions, or who are currently on parole, probation, or anyone who has been convicted for any offense involving moral turpitude are not eligible to attend. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and either reside or work in Hays County.
