The Yolo County Sheriff’s Citizens Academy offers community members an
inside look at the daily operations, responsibilities, and services of the Sheriff’s Office. Launched in 2022, the Academy is designed for residents with little or no prior law enforcement experience, providing a “behind-the-scenes” understanding of how we serve Yolo County.
Participants meet once a week for ten weeks, where they receive presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and guided tours led by Sheriff’s Office personnel. The Citizens Academy is informational only and not a training program for law enforcement careers.
Schedule & Location
- Most sessions take place on Tuesday evenings, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- One extended session is held on a Saturday, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sessions are held primarily at the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office
- 140 Tony Diaz Drive, Woodland, CA
- Some demonstrations will take place at off-site training locations
Academy Goals
- Build trust and strengthen relationships between the Sheriff’s Office and the community
- Provide a clear understanding of Sheriff’s Office operations, roles, and responsibilities
- Create an informed group of community members who can share knowledge with others
- Establish a network of alumni who remain engaged with the Sheriff’s Office
Sample Topics & Activities
Participants will meet deputies, investigators, professional staff, and specialty teams while experiencing topics such as:
- Criminal Investigations & Case Studies
- Patrol Operations & Drone Unit
- Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)
- Use of Force & Scenario Discussions
- Search and Rescue
- Jail Operations & Facility Tour
- SWAT
- Marine Patrol
- Coroner’s Office & Public Administrator
- Crisis Negotiation Team
…and much more.
Participant Requirements
To participate, applicants must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Live or work in Yolo County
- Have no prior felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanors
- Be willing to submit to a Live Scan background check
- Commit to attending the ten-week program
- Complete and submit a Citizens Academy application
2026 Academy Information
The application period for the 2026 Citizens Academy will open June 2026.
More details, including application instructions, will be posted here when available.