Youth Police Academy

Each June, the Sheriff's Office offers our county's rising 9th through 12th graders the opportunity to attend a 5-day academy to learn about the law enforcement agency in their county.  The 2018 Youth citizen's Police academy will take place June 24-28, 2019.  Applications are due to the student's School Resource Officer (SRO) by May 31, 2019.

Schedule & Location

Sessions run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and takes place at the Sheriff's Office Headquarters, the Sheriff's Office firing range located on Courtland Farm Road and other off-site locations where transportation is provided by the Hanover County Sheriff's Office.

Throughout the academy, participants learn about the how's and why's of police work such as:
  • Crime scene investigations
  • Functions of specialized units such as Narcotics
  • Traffic Safety
  • Traffic Stops
  • Youth Services


YCPA 2015

Hands-on Exercises


Students will have the opportunity for hands-on exercises with the final day spent at the Sheriff's Office firing range with presentations by the department's special units such as:
  • High Risk Entry (HRET)
  • Hostage Negotiation
  • K-9 demonstrations
The day will culminate with a picnic for the students and their families.

Law Enforcement Cadet Program


Since 2005, HCSO has hosted 12 YCPA sessions, with approximately 200 county youth having attended. Participating in the YCPA is a great way for youth to communicate with officers, learn about our Law Enforcement Cadet Program and possibly spark an interest in law enforcement as a career.

Applicant Requirements


Applicants must be in good standing with their respective school and have no criminal background. If you would like more information on the YCPA, please see your School Resource Officer and watch for advertised dates to be posted within your school.