Summary of Services
- An educational curriculum that covers Sheriff’s Office operations, policies, jail management, emergency communications, investigative techniques, and crime prevention strategies
- Community engagement, which builds trust, transparency, and cooperation between residents and law enforcement
- A graduation ceremony, which recognizes participants with a certificate of completion at the end of the program
Building Lasting Connections Through Education
The Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA), hosted by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO), offers residents and local business owners a rare, in-depth look at the inner workings of law enforcement. This free 10-week program provides transparent, educational, and hands-on experience.
Held once in the Fall and once in the Spring, CLEA meets for three hours each week, allowing participants to explore the many facets of modern policing while building lasting connections with the men and women who serve St. Johns County. Throughout the course, participants will gain valuable knowledge about the criminal justice system and how it operates at the local level.
Sessions cover a range of topics, including the organizational structure of the Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement policies, jail operations, and inmate management. Crime prevention strategies, investigative techniques, and policing tactics are also discussed, providing a well-rounded view of how public safety is maintained.
One of the highlights of the CLEA program is the opportunity to visit the Sheriff’s Office shooting range for a lesson on firearms safety. This session focuses on the responsible handling and storage of firearms and is conducted under the supervision of trained law enforcement instructors.
Strengthening the Community's Connection to the Sheriff's Office
After the 10-week program, participants take part in a formal graduation ceremony during the 11th week. Graduates are recognized for their commitment to learning about law enforcement and receive an official certificate of completion.
While the program does not qualify attendees to serve in a law enforcement role, it does mark the successful completion of a meaningful educational experience that strengthens the community’s connection to its Sheriff’s Office.
Elgibility
To be eligible for the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academy, individuals must be 21 years of age or older, reside in St. Johns County or own a business within the county, and successfully pass a background check. Because space in each session is limited, early registration is highly encouraged. Those interested in joining the program can secure their place by contacting the Public Affairs and Community Engagement Team at pace@sjso.org or visiting here.