The Hinds County Sheriff’s Office said on its Facebook page that it is accepting applications for its Citizens Academy and encouraged residents to “Get signed up today.” The post said application instructions and sign-up information were listed below the announcement on the department’s social media page.
Citizens academies are community outreach programs run by law enforcement agencies to familiarize residents with police operations, procedures and responsibilities. Such programs typically include classroom-style sessions, facility tours and presentations by personnel to increase public understanding of policing.
The Hinds County Sheriff’s Office said the Citizens Academy is provided by the HCSO and its partners. Programs like this are intended to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, improve transparency and give residents an opportunity to ask questions and learn about public safety efforts.
The sheriff’s office did not provide additional details in the post about dates, eligibility or how long the academy will run; the sign-up instructions were posted on its Facebook page. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
