It's that time of year again! District Attorney General Charme Allen is now accepting applications for the 2023 District Attorney General's Citizens Academy.

The Citizens Academy offers Knox County residents a behind-the-scenes look at the criminal justice system. Participants learn about the specific roles of law enforcement officers, attorneys, judges, and jurors, while being exposed to the inner workings and complexities involved in prosecution.

Citizens can practice what they have learned by participating in a mock trial, arguing a criminal case as prosecutors. In addition to the mock trial, assistant district attorneys present on a wide range of topics including Criminal Justice 101, the "CSI Effect," the opioid epidemic, gangs, and other trends that impact our community.

To be eligible for this program, applicants must be at least 18 years old; live and work in Knox County; and agree to a background check to be completed by the DA's Office

The Citizens Academy will be held from 6-8 p.m. on the following eight Tuesdays: Sept. 5, 12, 19 and 26; Oct 3, 10, 17 and 24.

To request an application, contact Emily Schueneman with the Office of the District Attorney General at emily.scheuneman@knoxcounty.org or 865-215-3736.

You can also apply online.

The deadline to apply is Friday, July 2. The program acceptance notice should be released by Friday, Aug. 4, if not sooner.

The post Apply to Participate in DA's Citizens Academy appeared first on The Knoxville Focus.