The Liberty County Citizens Prosecutor Academy concluded on Wednesday, Oct. 29, with 24 local residents graduating from the nine-week program. Held in the Dayton Police Department’s training room, the academy was organized by the Liberty County District Attorney’s Office, with support from local law enforcement partners, including Texas Rangers Josh Benson and John Sullivan, Texas DPS Sgt. Rob Willoughby, Sheriff Bobby Rader, local constables, and Cleveland ISD Police Department.
The program was designed to educate community members on the prosecutorial process and foster a deeper understanding of the legal system and public safety.
Throughout the course, participants gained insight into the complexities of felony case management within the DA’s office, from the types of cases prosecuted to the investigations carried out by law enforcement.
Attendees followed each stage of the legal process—from intake, where cases are brought to the DA, to grand jury indictments, and then through the court system to resolution. District Attorney Jennifer Bergman highlighted that many participants were surprised by the intricate steps involved and developed a newfound appreciation for the demanding work of prosecutors.
“A lot of the students are involved in their communities. There were quite a few retired folks who thought they had some knowledge of the system from our perspective as prosecutors,” Bergman said. “They all expressed how much they enjoyed the class and how much they learned. I think they have a new appreciation for the work prosecutors do day in and day out.”
In addition to procedural knowledge, the academy covered topics on crime prevention efforts, public safety initiatives, and the importance of victims’ rights and resources available in Liberty County. Sessions with local law enforcement partners provided a broader perspective on investigative practices, allowing participants to interact with experts and ask questions directly.
Bergman also noted that some of the participants had previously completed the Dayton Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy, reflecting a strong community interest in criminal justice.
“We were able to answer the questions that I think so many people in the community have about the legal process. I think it’s helpful to educate folks, and hopefully, they will share their knowledge with others,” she added.
The DA’s office handles an average of 2,000 cases annually, a challenging caseload expected to grow with Liberty County’s rising population. Bergman thanked the Dayton Police Department for providing their training space, her staff for dedicating time to teach, and local law enforcement officers who contributed to the course.
This inaugural Citizens Prosecutor Academy, the first hosted by Bergman since being elected, proved to be a success, and she hopes to make it an annual event. By continuing this program, she aims to strengthen community engagement, transparency, and public knowledge of the legal process.
Proud to be one of the first 24 graduates. An outstanding 9-week course! Gained a fuller, better understanding of the DA’s office and an even greater appreciation for these “public servants”.
Great Class. Thank you to all the Prosecutors and The Prosecutor’s Staff. All these folks are well educated professionals.