Now accepting applications for the 2018 Citizens Academy

The Office of the District Attorney General is now accepting applications for its 2018 Citizens Academy.

The Citizens Academy is held in the fall and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the criminal justice system. Participants learn about the specific roles of law enforcement, attorneys, and the courts, while being exposed to the inner-workings and complexities involved in prosecution. Citizens have the opportunity to practice what they have learned by participating in a mock trial, arguing a criminal case as prosecutors. In addition to the mock trial, assistant district attorneys present on a wide range of topics including Criminal Justice 101, the “CSI Effect,” the opioid epidemic, gangs, human trafficking, and other trends impacting our community.

“This year will be our third year offering the Citizens Academy and what we’ve found is that the academy helps remove a perceived cloak of secrecy around the work we do,” shared District Attorney General Charme Allen. “It is my hope that after graduation, our new ambassadors take what they’ve learned and share it with their friends, family, neighbors and colleagues.”

Participants must be at least 18 years old, live or work in Knox County, and must undergo a background check, including a criminal history check. The application and more information can be downloaded from the links listed below. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, June 29. In order to promote active participation and individual attention, class size will be limited to 25 members.

Download Academy Application and Information:

2018 Citizens Academy Information Sheet – PDF

2018 Citizens Academy Application – PDF

Citizens Academy Dates/Times: 
Sept. 4, Sept. 11, Sept. 18, Sept. 25, Oct. 2, Oct. 9, and Oct. 16
6:00pm-8:00pm each session.

If you have any questions regarding the Community Affairs Unit, please contact the Community Affairs Director at dag@knoxcounty.org. or 865-215-2515.