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The Hays County Sheriff ’s Office is accepting applications for the 2025 Spring session of the Sheriff ’s Citizens Academy. This 12-week program offers residents an indepth look at the Sheriff ’s Office and the criminal justice system, with the goal of fostering stronger ties between law enforcement and the community.
The academy begins Feb. 20 and will meet Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Public Safety Building, located at 810 S. Stagecoach Trail in San Marcos. This free, 36hour course is taught by Sheriff ’s Office staff and guest speakers, providing participants a hands-on opportunity to engage with law enforcement professionals.
The program is designed to promote understanding and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. Participants will explore key operations of the Sheriff ’s Office while law enforcement personnel gain valuable insights into the concerns and perspectives of Hays County residents.
The curriculum includes patrol and jail operations, 9-1-1 dispatch, use of force, SWAT, crisis negotiations, mental health response, and criminal investigations. Participants will also tour the Hays County Jail, Juvenile Detention Center, and Communications Center. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to join deputies for a ride-along to experience a patrol shift firsthand.
To apply, individuals must be at least 18 years old, reside or work in Hays County and pass a background check. Those with felony convictions, current parole or probation status or convictions for offenses involving moral turpitude are not eligible.
Class size is limited to 20 participants, and applications must be submitted by Feb. 14. Accepted participants will be notified by Feb. 17 and will receive a welcome email and information packet. Applications are available in person at the Public Safety Building, online at hayscountytx.com, or by emailing Deputy Mark Andrews at mark.andrews@hayscountytx. gov. Completed applications can be submitted by mail, fax, or email to the Hays County Sheriff ’s Office Community Outreach Unit, Attention: Mark Andrews, at 810 S. Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos, TX 78666. Applicants may also contact Deputy Andrews directly by phone at 512-3937373 or by fax at 512393-7879.
The Sheriff ’s Office encourages residents to apply early, as space is limited.
