October 19, 2018
By: Dwayne Page
DeKalb County residents will soon have a chance to get a closer look at the operation of the Sheriff’s Department and Jail.
Sheriff Patrick Ray is establishing a Citizens Academy. The idea is to offer a series of classes once or twice a year on the day to day operations of the sheriff’s department and jail. The course will also cover simunition firearms training, investigations, traffic stops, and other subjects. Participants will even get to ride along with a deputy for a night.
“The purpose of the Citizens Academy is to foster better communications between citizens and the Sheriff’s Department through education and cooperation,” said Sheriff Patrick Ray.
The classes will meet once a week for three hours each night over an eight week period. Class size is limited.
The first session will be just for the county commissioners and the county mayor starting in February. After that Sheriff Ray will open the academy to the public, possibly by next fall.
All participants who sign up for the academy must be 21 years of age or older, pass a criminal background check, and sign a release of liability form.
“Because of the firearms training, no participant can have a felony criminal conviction, a domestic violence conviction, pending criminal charges, be under an order of protection, or have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution,” said Sheriff Ray.
The sheriff said he is looking forward to starting this new public service.
“This is a great way for the public to have a better understanding of the department and a better informed citizen is more likely to share their experience with the community as the opportunity arises. Everyone benefits from enhancing citizens knowledge of the role and function of the Sheriff’s Department,” said Sheriff Ray.