Logo courtesy of Yolo County District Attorney's office

WOODLAND, CA (MPG) - Applications are now being accepted for the annual Yolo County District Attorney Citizens Academy. The academy is sponsored by the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office in cooperation with the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol, the Davis Police Department, the UC Davis Police Department, the West Sacramento Police Department, the Winters Police Department, the Woodland Police Department and the Yolo County Probation Department.  

The Citizen’s Academy is an eight-week journey designed to involve diverse communities in participating in mutual learning about the criminal justice system. The goal is to educate the public and improve relationships and communication between the many different communities in Yolo County and the criminal justice system. The academy is scheduled to be held in person at the Woodland Police Department in Woodland.

Topics this year will include: the role of the District Attorney; the role of law enforcement; victim services; gangs; restorative justice practices and collaborative courts addressing mental illness and addiction. In past years, participants observed a DUI trial and K-9 officer presentations. Participants will also learn about the innovative programs implemented at the District Attorneys’ Office aimed at addressing racial inequity and increasing transparency.

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig stated that “The Academy provides a comprehensive look at the criminal justice system in Yolo County. Together we will explore how the system interplays with our communities from West Sacramento to the rural areas. I think participants will be educated, enlightened and entertained.”

The Academy will meet every Thursday for eight weeks, from April 23 to June 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. To enroll contact Wendy Wilcox by email at [email protected], by phone at: 530-666-8356,  or you can log on to www.yoloda.org for more information.  Class space is limited. Applicants must be 18 years of age and be connected to Yolo County through residence, work or education. Application deadline is April 3.