The deadline to apply for the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office Fall 2023 Citizen’s Academy will be closing Friday, Aug. 25. 

The district attorney’s office is hosting a free, in-person, seven-week Citizen’s Academy for community members in Douglas, Arapahoe, Lincoln and Elbert counties. 

Starting every Thursday from Sept. 14 through Oct. 26 at 6 p.m., residents will get a detailed overview of the criminal justice system. 

The academy will be held at the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Centennial, located at 6450 S. Revere Pkwy. 

Prosecutors from the 18th Judicial District will provide an in-depth look at what takes place between the time of arrest and post-conviction in criminal cases.  

Throughout the course, attendees will learn about some of the district’s specialized units, which include the Domestic Violence Unit, Cold Case Unit, Special Victim’s Unit, Organized Crime Unit, Economic Crime Unit, Investigations Team, Juvenile Prosecution and Victim’s Compensation. 

Vanessa Gates, a Douglas County resident, took part in the academy last year and is very grateful for the experience. She said it is always good to know what’s happening in the community.

“I just learned so much about what they do,” said Gates. “There is a lot that we don’t know about.”

Also, attendees will have the option to participate in a mock trial following the classroom portion of the course. 

In a press release from the district, District Attorney John Kellner said he is proud to provide the public with an opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the justice system works. 

Gates said it’s a great opportunity for people of all ages but encourages those with younger voices to attend.

The Fall 2023 Citizen’s Academy is held once a year and is limited to 40 slots. Applications can be found on the district’s website at https://www.da18.org/community-outreach/citizens-academy/.