District Attorney Diana Becton's office is holding its second
Community 
Academy starting in March. The goal of the academy is to strengthen community relations and provide residents a better understanding of the criminal justice system.
It's the only academy of its kind by a DA's office in Northern California.
The academy is free, and is open to residents who live or work in Contra Costa County. Sessions are held weekly for 12 weeks in the DA's office in Martinez. (Details below)
There is an application process. Residents can apply through this
weblink or in person at these locations:
900 Ward Street, Martinez, CA
10 Douglas Drive Suite 130, Martinez, CA
100 37th St. Rm 220, Richmond, CA
Applications should be submitted to the attention of Janet Era. Applications can also be emailed to
[email protected].
The application period ends on February 11, 2019.
The Community Academy will be made up of at least 20 residents. Classes are held from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm every Wednesday for 12 weeks at the DA's office in downtown Martinez, 900 Ward Street.
Classes start March 6.
The academy helps underscore the DA's commitment to engaging and educating County residents. Participants can expect to learn how cases are filed, the different types of crimes the DA's office investigates and prosecutes, and the office's community outreach efforts to prevent crime and to support children, parents and crime victims.
Presenters will include deputy district attorneys, investigators, victim advocates, support staff, community based organizations and justice partners.
