Citizen’s Academy

Program Overview

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office CITIZENS ACADEMY is designed to acquaint residents of Topeka and Shawnee County with the goals, objectives, organizational structure, and general operating procedures of the department and to promote good will, mutual understanding and community support.

The Citizens Academy 6th Class

Class members (not in order) : Arthur Botello, Joan Crow, Stephen Crow, Nick Custenborder, Bill Fitzgibbons, Jean Fitzgibbons, Gerald Franklin, Bob Grochowsky, Woody Houseman, Janet McKillip, Larry Mathews, Jenny Moe, Connie Rasmussen, Paul Rasmussen, Harry Rupple.

Participation Criteria & Selection

Any resident of Shawnee County who is at least 18 years old, has no criminal record, and agrees to the established program rules may participate in the program. Applicants who meet the criteria for participation will be notified of their course date depending upon available course space. Applicants must agree to submit to a background check.

Course Activities & Scheduling

The Citizens Academy will be conducted periodically and will meet one night a week for 13 weeks. Sessions are held at the Law Enforcement Center at 320 S. Kansas. Program topics include overviews of:

Citizens Academy Brochure with Application

• The structure and activities of the department
• Criminal Investigations
• Criminal law
• Narcotics Investigations
• Public information programs
• Coroner’s Office
• Patrol operations
• Emergency Communications
• Traffic law enforcement
• Special operations

For information on the next Academy contact
Deputy Jay Boyles at 368-2265 or e-mail at; justin.boyles@snco.us