Forty-two recruits graduated Friday, Sept. 25, from the Ventura County Criminal Justice Academy, completing a 24-week training program and entering law enforcement careers across the region.
The ceremony for Class 2026-01 took place at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, according to the Ventura County Sheriff's Office.
Of the 42 graduates, 17 will join the Sheriff's Office.
The Sheriff's Office did not identify which agencies the remaining 25 graduates will join.
The academy, based in Thousand Oaks, is accredited by California's Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). Recruits complete the 24-week POST program before they can begin work as peace officers, according to the Sheriff's Office training center. The center also provides in-service training for Sheriff's Department personnel and tri-county law enforcement.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, who represents the 42nd Assembly District, attended the graduation and posted on X congratulating the class.
"You now carry an awesome responsibility to serve, protect, and uphold the rights and dignity of your fellow citizens," Irwin wrote.
Irwin called it meaningful that a Special Olympics athlete joined Class 2026-01 as an honorary member. She wrote that the athlete's participation highlighted the role of relationship-building in law enforcement. The athlete's name was not released.
The Sheriff's Office said the 17 new members will begin their careers with the agency. The academy is a component of Ventura County Government and has trained officers across the region for decades.
Residents interested in learning more about the academy or law enforcement careers in Ventura County can visit the Sheriff's Office training center page at sheriff.venturacounty.gov. Anyone wishing to report a crime or safety concern can contact the Ventura County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at 805-654-9511.
