This spring the Sheriff’s Office hosted our seventh session of the Sheriff’s Community Academy, an engaging experience for Alexandrians to explore the Office’s role in the local criminal justice system.

Starting April 6, eight participants spent their Saturday mornings learning about Sheriff’s Office operations, interacting with sworn and professional staff, observing demonstrations, and touring the Adult Detention Center and Alexandria Courthouse. After four class meetings, the Community Academy members celebrated their graduation on May 4 with Sheriff Sean Casey presenting each with a certificate of achievement and a Sheriff’s Office challenge coin.

Congratulations to Jamey Basham, Christine Garner, Angela Martin, Nigel Mease, Heather Price, Elissa Rumsey, Jessi Skaarvold and Truong Cam Tu for successfully completing the Sheriff’s Community Academy!

During this session, Sheriff’s Community Academy participants learned about jail operations, court security, transportation of inmates, civil process, inmate classification and programs, facility support, equipment, training, accreditation, hiring and more. Staff gave presentations and provided demonstrations, and Academy members were encouraged to ask questions and participate in hands-on activities, including a firearms training simulator, pepperball training, polygraph examination and Project Lifesaver tracking equipment.

At graduation, Sheriff Casey thanked the graduates for committing their personal time to learn about the Sheriff’s Office. Graduates shared their thoughts with Sheriff Casey and offered positive feedback about their experiences and about the Office’s staff and operations. Graduates, their guests and ASO staff also enjoyed a delicious assortment of homemade breakfast baked goods, courtesy of Ms. Martin.

The next Sheriff’s Community Academy class will be held in fall 2024. Those who are interested may contact coordinator Sergeant Cassandra Branch at cassandra.branch@alexandriava.gov or check the City’s Academy website.