The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for its 2025 Citizens Police Academy (CPA) class. This 12-week program will begin on September 10, 2025, and will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. through early December 3, except on Wednesday, November 26. The classes will be held in various locations, including the CCSO Headquarters, District 3 Station, Community Services Annex, Crime Lab, Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, and the Charles County Courthouse.

 “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Citizens Police Academy, I’m incredibly proud of the strong interest and support we’ve received from our community over the years. The CPA has been a powerful tool in building trust and understanding, giving residents a firsthand look at the responsibilities our officers, correctional staff, and employees provide. It’s been overwhelmingly positive—not only have participants walked away with a deeper appreciation of law enforcement, but the relationships formed have helped strengthen our connection to the people we serve,” said Sheriff Troy D. Berry. 

Participants will learn about a wide range of topics, including:
•           Patrol Procedures
•           Narcotics Investigations
•           Forensic Evidence
•           Criminal Law
•           Juvenile Issues
•           Use of Force
•           Criminal Investigations
•           Search and Seizure

Participants will get hands-on experiences, including a Firearms Training Simulator (FATS) and crime scene processing. They will also have the opportunity to ride with a police officer and experience policing from an officer’s perspective. Participation in the Ride-along Program is not required but is strongly encouraged.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of Charles County. Individuals who wish to apply will be subject to a background check. This program is free of charge. There are a limited number of seats available, so anyone interested in participating in the CPA should submit their application as soon as possible.

Additional information and applications for the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy can be found on our website. Applications are due no later than August 8, 2025,  and can be emailed to communityorganizer@ccso.us or mailed to:

Charles County Sheriff’s Office
6915 Crain Highway
PO Box 189
La Plata, MD 20646
Attn: Human Resources

Additional questions about the program or application process should be directed to Captain Cari Baker at Bakerce@ccso.us.

CONTACT:
Diane Richardson
Media Relations Specialist
301-609-6557 or 240 682-1658

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple Store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com.