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The Hays County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications from Hays County residents interested in learning more about the local criminal justice system.
The Sheriff’s Citizens Academy is a 36hour program designed to provide participants with a working knowledge of the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and the criminal justice system. This free program includes 12 weeks of instruction led by Hays County Sheriff’s Office staff and guest speakers. Classes are held Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Public Safety Building, 810 S. Stagecoach Trail in San Marcos. The course is tentatively set to begin Feb. 15.
The academy aims to foster a better understanding between residents and the Sheriff’s Office through education. Topics covered include patrol operations, jail operations, 911 dispatch, use of force, special weapons and tactics, crisis negotiations, mental health, criminal investigations, and more. Students will have the opportunity to interact with instructors and staff, sharing experiences and gaining a better understanding of the criminal justice system and local communities.
Participants may tour the Hays County Jail, the Juvenile Detention Center, and the Public Safety Building, including its state-ofthe- art communications center. They will also have the chance to ride along with a deputy as an observer during a regular patrol shift.
Applications can be obtained in person at the Public Safety Building or by emailing Deputy Mark Andrews at mark.andrews@ co.hays.tx.us. The application is also available for download at hayscountytx.com/ lawenforcement/sheriff. Applications must be received by Jan. 31. Individuals with felony convictions, those currently on parole or probation, or those convicted of any offense involving moral turpitude are not eligible to attend. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and either reside or work in Hays County. For questions, contact Deputy Mark Andrews at (512) 393-7373 or mark.andrews@ co.hays.tx.us.
