Liberty County residents interested in learning more about the criminal justice system have an opportunity to go behind the scenes through the Liberty County District Attorney’s Citizen Prosecutor Academy.
The nine-week program, hosted by the Liberty County District Attorney’s Office, begins Sept. 1 and continues through Oct. 27. Sessions will be held each Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Dayton Police Department.
The academy is designed to give participants an inside look at how criminal cases are investigated and prosecuted while providing a better understanding of the roles of prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and other criminal justice professionals.
District Attorney Jennifer Bergman said the program is intended to build trust by helping residents better understand the justice system.
“I believe the more people understand how the criminal justice system works, the more confidence they’ll have in it,” Bergman said. “The Citizen Prosecutor Academy is our opportunity to open the doors, answer questions, and give our community an inside look at the work we do. My hope is that every graduate leaves with a better understanding of the justice system and the important role each of us plays in it.”
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and willing to attend all nine sessions. The application requests basic personal information, educational background, civic involvement, and asks applicants about prior jury service, participation in other citizen academies, and any involvement with the criminal justice system. A criminal background and warrant check will also be conducted as part of the application process.
Applications must be received electronically or postmarked by Aug. 10. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by Aug. 25.
Completed applications may be emailed to daintake@co.liberty.tx.us, faxed to 936-336-4644, or mailed or delivered to the Liberty County District Attorney’s Office, 1923 Sam Houston, Suite 112, Liberty, TX 77575, Attention: Savanna McClusky.
Applications for the 2026 Liberty County Citizen Prosecutor Academy also are available through the Liberty County District Attorney’s Office.
