Due to COVID-19 concerns, we are unable to accept registrations at this time.
For those interested in attending the Citizens Academy you may sign up by email
by providing your full name, mailing address, phone number, race, sex, and
date of birth for purpose of criminal history check.
This information should be emailed to Register Here
You will be notified by US Mail if your application has been accepted and are included
in the upcoming class (limited to 70).
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office hosts a Citizens Law Enforcement Academy class
twice yearly. The Academy courses are designed to give participants a working knowledge
of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and the criminal justice system. The series
of 11 classes on various law enforcement topics encourage discussion. Classes are
held on a designated evening, typically from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Most are
held at the Manatee Technical College (MTC)-East Campus located at 5520 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Bradenton.
Other location may be announced in class. Enrollment is free.
The classes will provide an in-depth view into various areas of law enforcement.
It is an educational and informative program that allows citizens the opportunity
to learn about the issues that effect law enforcement efforts in Manatee County.
Academy classes are taught by Sheriff's Office and Police executives, as well as
veteran officers. Students will have the opportunity to meet with Sheriff Wells
and they are encouraged to ask questions and express their concerns. The Manatee
County Sheriff's Office hopes there will be a greater awareness and understanding
of law enforcement's role in the community through the education provided by the
Law Enforcement Academy. An added benefit is that participants learn the importance
of developing partnerships with the Sheriff's and Police Departments. The goal is
that participants, upon completion of the course, will attain a better understanding
of what the Sheriff's Office does and why, and experience improved communication
and partnership between themselves and our agency.
Graduates may choose to join the Manatee County Sheriff's Office - Volunteer Program.
Being a volunteer provides an opportunity for continued education in the field of
law enforcement and allows a more interpersonal association with the Sheriff's Office.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Communications / 911
- Patrol Functions
- Internal Affairs
- Enforcement Bureau
- Crime Lab
- Crime Prevention
- Criminal Investigations Bureau
- Court Services
- Corrections Bureau Operations
- Training
- Special Teams Display
- Self-defense
For more information on the Citizens Law Enforcement Academy Contact:
Deputy Bruce Meade
941- 747- 3011Ext 2459