Citizens' Academy

The Sheriff’s Office Citizens’ Academy is an eleven-week program designed to provide residents of Mecklenburg and surrounding counties an opportunity to receive first-hand information about how the Sheriff’s Office works.

The Academy is designed to increase understanding between citizens and the Sheriff’s Office through education and participation. The intent is to acquaint citizens with the different roles performed by Detention Officers, Deputy Sheriffs, and Civilian Staff within the criminal justice system and to provide increased understanding of the duties and responsibilities of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.

Participation in the Academy requires a commitment of one night a week for an eleven-week period. Classes are held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. During the academy, participants will tour Arrest Processing, Detention Center Central, and Detention Center North.
Activities will include firearms instruction and training, civilian self-defense, and a ride-along with deputy sheriffs.

Staff from civil process, courts, K-9, domestic violence, Motor Unit, Negotiations Unit, Explorer Post, Gun Permits, D.A.R.T., and Resident Programs will discuss their role in achieving our vision of protecting the citizens of Mecklenburg County.
Instructors include Detentions Officers, Deputy Sheriffs and civilian personnel from the Sheriff’s Office. Each instructor has years of training and experience in the operation of the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office strives to reflect a diverse group of participants. Applicants will be evaluated and notified when they are selected to participate. Applications will be maintained for future academy participation.

Those interested in attending the Sheriff’s Office Citizens’ Academy should call 980-314-5002 for more information or, to apply, click here to fill out an application.

Having difficulty completing the online application? No problem, print and complete the application and fax to 704-432-0730 or mail it to:


MCSO Community Engagement
700 E. Fourth Street
Charlotte, NC 28202

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