Sheriff's Office Announces Sheriff's Citizen Academy

Posted on December 29, 2025

Missoula County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the first Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy. 

Participants will gain insight into patrol operations, investigations, our K9 program, Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD), detention operations, search and rescue and much more.

“This is a unique opportunity for community members to learn firsthand how we serve our local residents and visitors in Missoula County,” stated Sheriff, Jeremiah Petersen. 

The Academy is free; however, the course does require a time commitment.  It includes approximately 18 hours of instruction and will be taught over six weeks. Classes will be held every Wednesday, beginning March 11, 2026, from 6 to 8:30pm at the Missoula County Search and Rescue Building, located at 2147 Earnest Avenue in Missoula. The Academy will conclude with a Saturday session held at the Missoula County Firearms Range on April 11, 2026.

Eligible participants include those who are 21 years or older, live or work in Missoula County, have no felony convictions, no misdemeanor arrests in the past three years, and those willing to complete a background check. 

Those who wish to participate must complete an application located online. Hard copies are available at the Sheriff's Office building, located at 2415 Mullan Road.  Completed applications must be hand-delivered to our office at 2415 Mullan Road, by close of business on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. Please bring your driver's license or ID card to complete a background check.

“We are excited to offer this opportunity to those who live and work in Missoula County,” said Petersen. “Our goal is to educate participants while strengthening community partnerships and identifying solutions that improve safety and security for everyone in our county.”

Missoula County Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy is limited to 15 participants. A waiting list will be created of eligible applicants.

Categories: government