​Community Academy

What is the ​Community Academy?

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is committed to the concept of Community Policing. Including citizens as partners in finding solutions to crime and its prevention, is a valued part of that concept.

The purpose of the ​​Community Academy is to develop positive relations and partnerships between the Sheriff’s Office and the community at large, through education. It is not our intent to train citizens to become deputies. Rather it is an opportunity to see first hand what local deputies do and the responsibilities law enforcement personnel have.

By creating a nucleus of responsible, well-informed citizens who understand the tasks and responsibilities of our deputies, we hope to enhance the relationship between the Sheriff’s Office and the community, resulting in a clearer understanding of what the community can expect from the deputies who serve them and what the deputies can provide within the parameters of funding and the law.

Critical to the success of any partnership is to be well informed about the issues and responsibilities facing all individuals within a partnership. The Academy is our way of providing information on our mission, values, resources, practices, and services. With better understanding it becomes easier for police and our citizens to find realistic solutions to neighborhood and community problems.

What Will I Learn?

• Criminal Investigations, Crime Scene analysis and Evidence;
• Computer Forensics and Identity Theft;
• Officer Safety, Survival, Use of force and CERT;
• Emergency Management and Homeland Security;
• Training;
• K-9 Officers and their roles;
• Patrol and the traffic team;
• The CODE Team, Narcotics and Drug Enforcement;
• Search and Rescue & Marine;
• Jail Tour;
• Court Security and Transports;
• Civil and Impounds;
• Emergency Vehicle Operation – Skid Car;
• Community Policing including: School Resource Officers, and Volunteering programs.

Who Will Teach Me?

Officers, Supervisors, and Technicians who possess a wide variety of skills, training and experience. You are encouraged to ask questions, express ideas, view simulated activities, observe trainings, tour the facilities, and if you desire, take part in firearms training, EVOC training, and sign up for a ride along with a patrol deputy. For additional information, please call 541-388-6655.