The Citizen’s Academy program offers an opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system and engage with local law enforcement agencies. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office is now accepting applications for its 2025 Citizen’s Academy. This unique 10-week program offers an opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system and engage with local law enforcement agencies, all at no cost to participants.

Running from April 1 to June 10, the academy will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at the Jan Scully Conference Room, located at 906 G St., Sacramento. Participants will gain insight into a range of topics, including the anatomy of a criminal case, specialized prosecution areas, CSI and crime lab analysis, use of force, and community-focused public safety initiatives. Additionally, there will be an exciting field trip to the District Attorney’s Crime Lab and the Sacramento Police Department’s 911 Communications Center.

Program graduates have praised it as an invaluable educational experience. Sylvia Franklin, a past participant, shared, “It’s a wonderful program, we found out about it through Nextdoor. It helps educate you and get you involved. It bridges the gap between the community and law enforcement.”

Zabrina Torres, a college student, added, “I really enjoyed this program. It gave me a better understanding of the District Attorney, the Defense Attorney and law enforcement.”

The academy is a collaborative effort between the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, Sacramento Police Department, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and Sacramento County Probation Department. The program aims to engage citizens from all backgrounds in discussions about public safety and criminal justice issues.

The application deadline is March 21. For more information and to apply, visit sacda.org/in-the-community/citizens-academy/. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to deepen your understanding of local law enforcement and the criminal justice system.