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Sheriff's Citizen Academy for Youth

The Sheriff’s Citizens Academy for Youth is a weeklong class that provides insight into the operations of the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office.  During this one-week, seven hour per day curriculum, subject matter experts from the sheriff’s and other professional fields will instruct you on a variety of subjects pertaining to law enforcement.  The participants (students) will have the opportunity to meet with Sheriff Montgomery and his staff members.  The purpose of this academy is to:

  • Increase understanding through education and interaction with members of the Sheriff’s Office.
  • Provide young citizens with the opportunity to learn why law enforcement officers “can” and/ or “cannot” do certain things. 
  • Increase law enforcement awareness to dispel suspicions and misconceptions, and increase community awareness and build a positive rapport with the community members. 
  • Create and develop a growing nucleus of responsible, well-informed youth citizens. 
  • Build a lasting and productive partnership between our Sheriff’s Office and the communities that we proudly serve. 

How do I apply? 

The Sheriff’s Citizens Academy for Youth is intended for youth between the ages of 14 – 17 years of age (high school aged) who wish to learn more about law enforcement in York County.   Participation in the academy requires a commitment of one week.  Students who cannot commit to the entire class should not apply.  Students are encouraged to ask questions, express their ideas and/ or concerns to instructors, as well as actively participate in the program. 

The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office selects Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy for Youth participants based on a first come – first serve process. Each applicant is required to pass a criminal background check conducted by the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office.  Applications for the Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy for Youth are submitted electronically and the link for the application is included on this webpage.  Class is limited to no more than 12 youth. 

Program Application Form - Apply here

What kind of instruction will I receive?

The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy for Youth will consist of classroom instruction to practical exercises and demonstrations to facility tours.  The academy class will cover the following training topics:

  • Sheriff Montgomery’s Introduction to the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office
  • How to become a Deputy
  • 911 communications
  • Investigations 
  • Distracted Driving
  • Courthouse Tour 
  • Mental Health for Youth
  • Emergency Response Team
  • Patrol
  • Radar 
  • DUI

Is lunch provided?

Yes, lunch will be provided to students everyday around 12 p.m.

Is there a graduation?

Upon the completion of the one-week course, a graduation ceremony will be held at the Sheriff’s Office.  Students are encouraged to invite there family to this ceremony.  Students will graduate with an increased knowledge of how crimes are solved, distracted driving, the various professional responsibilities of law enforcement professionals, what the laws are in our state, how the laws apply to young people, and the effects of alcohol and drugs.

Questions / Contacts

For questions pertaining to the SCA for Youth please contact Crime Prevention Specialist Kevin Taylor at (757) 890-3639 or by email kevin.taylor@yorkcounty.gov