Oswego County Sheriff’s Office Announces Citizens Police Academy

OSWEGO — The Oswego County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) is proud to announce its second Citizens Police Academy, a community engagement program designed to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at local law enforcement.

The Citizens Academy saw great success last year with 9 community members participating. This year, the Academy has an opportunity to expand and will accept up to 20 attendees.  Classes will begin on October 20 and run through November 17, with the first class held at the Public Safety Center, 39 Churchill Road, Oswego and includes a tour of 911 and Corrections. Classes will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on 5 consecutive Tuesdays. The program is open to residents of Oswego County who are at least 18 years old and interested in learning more about how the Sheriff’s Office operates and serves the community. There will be a modified background/criminal check for participants to gain entry to OCSO facilities and all attendees are expected to follow the Academy’s rules and standards of participation.

Participants will take part in interactive sessions covering a wide range of law enforcement topics, including:

• Patrol operations and criminal investigations
• Hands-on virtual scenarios
• NARCAN training and STOP-DWI program
• Drone, K-9, Search & Rescue and Specialized Unit demonstrations
• Crime/Fraud Prevention
• Traffic stops and Penal Law overview
• Community policing initiatives

Sheriff Don Hilton says the academy reflects the agency’s commitment to building stronger relationships with the community it serves.  “By opening our doors and giving residents an inside look at the work of our deputies and the many services we provide, we create opportunities for greater understanding, trust, and partnership,” said Sheriff Hilton. “Public safety is strongest when law enforcement and the community work together, and this academy is an important part of that effort.”

Space in the academy is limited, and applications will be accepted through October 2. Interested residents can request an application by contacting Sergeant Jim Prior, Police Academy Director, at [email protected]or (315) 593-9325.