Citizen’s Academy dates announced

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced that his office will be hosting a Citizen Academy starting on Oct. 19 to Nov. 11 with classes beginning at 6 p.m. and sessions lasting two to three hours.

The purpose of the academy is to give residents of Mercer County the opportunity to see an overview of the sheriff’s office and how it differs from other law enforcement agencies.

This will be the seventh citizen’s academy for the sheriff’s office.

The first Mercer County Citizen’s Academy was hosted in 2013 and culminated in the graduation of 11 students.

Eighty-three students have graduated from the academy since it was established.

The classes have consisted of citizens from different backgrounds, age groups and geographical areas of Mercer County.

The participants attend classes that are classroom based, observe demonstrations, take tours of the facilities and participate in hands on training sessions.

They are also provided with an opportunity to “job shadow” with staff members.

The academy is open to residents of Mercer County who are at least 21 year old. A background check is required.

Class size is limited.

Interested persons can stop at the office during office hours or go to the website at MercerCountySheriffOhio.gov to obtain an application packet.

Completed applications need to be returned to the sheriff’s office by Sept. 13, 2021.

If anyone has any questions they may contact Citizen’s Academy Coordinator, Sergeant Jay Wehrkamp, at 419-586-7724.