Training and Education

The Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy

In years past, the Sheriff's Offices in the Southern Maryland area relied on outside agencies to train recruits. Due to the large growth in population in the Southern Maryland area, the Sheriffs in the three Southern Maryland counties (St. Mary's, Calvert, and Charles) started the Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy, located in Charles County.

Established in 1988, the academy provides deputy and correctional officer recruits the necessary basic entrance-level training, annual in-service training for veterans, as well as specialized training for the law enforcement and correctional professionals in the Southern Maryland area.

The academy has provided training for other agencies including the Department of Defense, La Plata Township, University Park, Maryland Capital Area Park and Planning, and St. Mary's College.

All deputy sheriffs and correctional officers are highly trained and well-qualified. Upon graduation, deputy recruits are assigned to a twelve-week Field Training Program. After successful completion of the Field Training Program, deputies are assigned to the Patrol Division.