Twice a year, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office offers the Citizen’s Police Academy, a free comprehensive 12-week course designed to give community members an inside look at the operations of the Sheriff’s Office. Under the leadership of Sheriff Mike Crenshaw, community engagement has been a cornerstone of the OCSO’s mission, recognizing that effective policing goes hand-in-hand with strong relationships. The Citizen’s Police Academy provides a unique opportunity for residents to gain hands-on experience and knowledge about the various functions and responsibilities of law enforcement, covering everything from dispatch to patrol to investigations. By “pulling back the curtain,” the Sheriff’s Office fosters transparency, trust, and mutual understanding between the department and the citizens it serves.

Each class is limited to 25 participants and is offered at no cost, thanks to those who support the Sheriff’s Foundation. Classes meet once a week for approximately 2.5 hours, with an additional Saturday morning session included for some hands on action.