Kenton County Detention Center. Photo provided | Kenton County Sheriff's Office

The Kenton County Detention Center is now accepting applications for its first-ever “Citizens Academy.”

The new program is designed to provide residents with an in-depth understanding of the role the detention center plays in public safety and the county’s operations.

The citizens academy will offer participants a behind-the-scenes look at daily operations, budgetary considerations and the challenges of running a modern correctional facility, according to a release.

“Kenton County Detention Center is one of the most vital yet often misunderstood aspects of our community’s public safety infrastructure,” Kenton County Jailer Marc Fields said in a press release. “With this program, we want to provide transparency and help residents gain a broader perspective on the complexities of incarceration, rehabilitation and reentry programs.”

Over the course of the six-week academy, participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences, including:

  • Guided tours of the detention center and its specialized units
  • Presentations by detention center team members, medical staff and rehabilitation specialists
  • Insights into mental health, substance abuse programs and reentry initiatives

By participating in the citizens’ academy, residents will better understand how the detention center impacts public safety and why responsible management of this facility is essential for the community’s well-being.

Applications for the first session are now open and available here. Spots are limited to 20 participants. Applications are due April 15.

The academy will begin on April 17 and occur each Thursday evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for six weeks.

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