Sheriff’s Office Programs
SHERIFF’S CITIZEN ACADEMY
Sheriff Lyons created the Sheriff’s Citizens Academy in March 2022 under the direction of Chief Childers and Lt. Jacob Hopper. The academy was designed to offer transparency and improve civilian and law enforcement interaction. The academy is an 11-week course that meets weekly to educate citizens about the many aspects and departments within the Sheriff’s Office in an interactive classroom setting. Courses include: Asset/Forfeiture, Jail Division, and tour, Patrol Division, Civil Process, Animal Control, Sex Offender Registration, Crime Prevention, Civilian Interaction with Police, and Neighborhood Watch.
Citizen cadets will learn about the telecommunications center from the Telecommunications Supervisor. Identity Theft, People Crimes, such as assault and sexual crimes, will be conducted by qualified detectives.
They will be introduced to the K9s and receive an overview of the Narcotics Division—a demonstration and display by the Special Response Team (SRT) involving building clearing. Drone introduction and operation will be provided as well as a taser presentation.
Citizen cadets will be presented with the opportunity to participate in fingerprinting in an interactive setting. They will be able to participate in a “Shoot/Don’t Shoot” scenario, where they make the decision on what the correct reaction should be in numerous settings.
A variety of outside agencies will participate and educate the cadets concerning their responsibilities and duties, such as the FBI, the Texas Rangers, and Game Wardens. The Livingston Volunteer Fire Department, Polk County Justice of the Peace, and the Polk Country Criminal District Attorney’s Office will share information with cadets as well. The 258th and 411th Judicial District Community Supervision and Corrections Dept. will explain the probation aspect of a disposition.
SHERIFF’S JUNIOR CITIZEN ACADEMY
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office will be offering a 2-day Junior Citizens Academy. The goal of the academy is to educate and inform our youth concerning law enforcement, as well as offer career opportunities for those that could soon be entering the workforce. Our pilot academy is slated for April 2023 at Corrigan-Camden High School.
The Junior Academy will give students an opportunity to learn about civilian interaction with law enforcement. We will focus on harassment, bullying, vaping, gang affiliations, sexting and improper relationships. They will learn what each of the offenses is, the possible punishment for each, and the dangers associated. More importantly, they’ll learn how to report and protect themselves and others should it happen.
Students can also participate in a simulated rollover accident that exposes the dangers of texting and driving. A set of goggles that simulate being intoxicated or impaired, along with a golf cart will also be available for driving in a closed setting. These interactive exercises allow the student to fully experience the dangers of situations that they could face.
