The Pinal County Attorney's Office is gearing up to offer a unique educational opportunity to the public with the announcement of their upcoming Citizens Academy. Scheduled for Friday, July 19, the event promises to shine a light on the inner workings of the criminal justice system. Those with an interest in how prosecutors go about their business must mark their calendars for this one-day foray into the legal process.
"This is an excellent opportunity for folks to come, see what we do as prosecutors and how we navigate difficult charging decisions," said County Attorney Kent Volkmer in a statement obtained by Pinal County Attorney's Office. Sitting behind a desk, attendees will get an immersive experience designed to shed light on prosecutorial decision-making.
The Citizens Academy is free to attend and will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the PCAO Office located at 971 N. Jason Lopez Circle, Florence, AZ. Participants will enjoy a comprehensive schedule that includes detailed presentations from Volkmer himself and another seasoned prosecutor from his office. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to review actual case evidence and partake in a Q & A session with the professionals.
For those looking to get a firsthand taste of what law enforcement officers experience in the field, the academy also includes a simulation. In a statement given by Volkmer, he expressed, "We try to make this as in-depth an experience as possible to give those who attend an accurate reflection of how our office works and dispel any rumors about the criminal justice system." The attendees will be using a shooting simulator designed to replicate encounters law enforcement typically face and will get a guided tour of the county jail.
Interest in the upcoming Citizens Academy is expected to be high, and space is limited. Registrations for the event, taking place on July 19, are currently open, and those wishing to attend can sign up HERE.
