Applications are now being accepted for the Broward Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy. The academy is designed to provide participants with an overview of the criminal justice system, the operation of a law enforcement/fire rescue agency and the workings of the BSO Criminal Investigations Unit.

In addition, participants learn about gang prevention and identification, the dangers of synthetic drugs and participate in tours at one of Broward County’s Regional Communications/911 Centers and one of BSO’s detention facilities. A K-9 demonstration, a static display of equipment used by the BSO SWAT Team and a visit to the BSO Aviation Unit is also provided. Attendees are also offered an opportunity to participate in a ride along with a BSO deputy in the district and shift of their choice.

This 13-week course is offered free of charge on every Wednesday night from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. from January 6 – March 30, 2016 at the Ron Cochran Public Safety Building, 2601 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale on the first floor in the Multi-purpose Room. Anyone interested in taking part in BSO’s Citizens Academy may obtain an application by logging onto sheriff.org, then going to the “I want to…” section on the homepage and clicking the “Get involved” drop down. Select the Citizens Academy, click on the application and print it out. The application must be completed and returned for a criminal history check.

Please address any questions to Special Projects Coordinator Cheryl Vara at 954-321-5076.