Surry County Sheriff’s Office Concludes 2024 Citizens Academy

This fall, the Surry County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Steve C. Hiatt, successfully concluded its 2024 Citizens Academy, a 10-week program held from August 13 through October 22. The initiative invited local residents to step behind the badge and gain a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and challenges faced by the men and women who serve and protect Surry County.

About the Citizens Academy

The Citizens Academy was created to strengthen the bond between the Sheriff’s Office and the community it serves. Over the course of 10 weeks, participants engaged in weekly evening sessions that covered a wide range of law enforcement operations, including:

• Patrol operations and ride-alongs

• Detention center procedures

• Crime scene and narcotics investigations

• SWAT and K‑9 unit demonstrations

• Community policing strategies

  
  

The program concluded with a formal graduation ceremony in late October, where participants received certificates and were recognized for their commitment to learning and community engagement.

Why It Mattered

• It fostered trust: By giving residents a firsthand look at law enforcement operations, the Academy helped demystify the work of the Sheriff’s Office and promoted transparency.

• It empowered citizens: Graduates walked away with a better understanding of the daily realities of policing and felt more equipped to serve as informed advocates within their neighborhoods.

• It strengthened relationships: The shared experience brought together law enforcement officers and community members in a spirit of respect and collaboration.

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Reflections from Participants

Many participants described the experience as eye-opening, with several noting how much their perspectives had changed after seeing the professionalism, pressure, and responsibility carried by Sheriff’s Office staff. The Academy not only provided knowledge—it also sparked lasting conversations and connections.