The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce that registration for the Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy (CPA) is now open. Space is limited, and residents are encouraged to apply early.
The CPA is a free, 9-week program designed for adults who want a deeper understanding of the Sheriff’s Office and its operations. Participants meet once a week and learn about the many divisions, sections, and units that work together to keep Beaufort County safe. Instructional topics include Patrol Operations, the 911 Dispatch Center, Criminal and Cold Case Investigations, Forensic Services, the Firearms Training Simulator (FATS), and additional safety and crime-prevention resources.
As part of the program, participants will also spend one Saturday with the Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Teams, observing demonstrations by the Aviation and Drone Units, SWAT, K9 Units, Bloodhound Tracking Team, and more.
At the program’s conclusion, each participant will have the opportunity to take part in a ride-along with a patrol deputy.
To best serve residents across the county, the CPA is offered in both northern and southern Beaufort County:
- Southern Beaufort County CPA:
- First class is Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 6–9 p.m. in Bluffton
- Northern Beaufort County CPA:
- First class is Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 6–9 p.m. in Beaufort
Residents interested in participating can apply online at https://bcsocitizenspoliceacademyapplication.paperform.co/
