Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is accepting online applications and nominations for its Fall 2026 Citizens Police Academy, the department announced on June 22. Community members interested in learning about the internal operations, responsibilities, and community programs of the Sheriff’s Office are encouraged to apply for this informative 11-week program.

Classes will be held each Thursday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy, 1521 Eugene Heimann Circle in Richmond. Throughout the program, participants will hear presentations from division commanders, program managers, and subject matter experts who provide critical public safety services throughout Fort Bend County.

Participants will receive an in-depth look at Sheriff’s Office operations through classroom instruction, facility tours, and hands-on learning experiences. Topics will include patrol operations, criminal investigations, homeland security, narcotics investigations, the 9-1-1 Communications Center, detention services, training, and other specialized units. Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit Sheriff’s Office facilities and meet members of the executive command staff, including Sheriff Eric Fagan.

The Citizens Police Academy is designed to foster a greater understanding of law enforcement and the criminal justice system while strengthening partnerships between the Sheriff’s Office and the community it serves, the department said.

There is no cost to attend, and class size is limited to 35 participants.

Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. on August 17. The Fall 2026 Citizens Police Academy will begin on August 27 and conclude on November 5.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and not have an arrest record.

Register online using the following link: https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/sheriff-s-office/community-services/citizens-police-academy. For additional information, send an email to socp@fortbendcountytx.gov or contact the FBCSO Crime Prevention deputies at 281-238-1536.