Sally Moreno
The Madera County District Attorney’s Office under the direction of District Attorney Sally Moreno last week announced its inaugural Citizens Academy.
The DA’s Citizens Academy is a free six-week program offering residents an inside look at their role in the criminal justice system and the services their office provides.
The 2026 Fall Citizens Academy will take place Tuesday evenings from 6-9 p.m. at the Madera County District Attorney’s Office in Madera.
The first meeting is Oct. 6, “Welcome & Justice System Overview.”
Moreno will introduce the program, provide an overview of the criminal justice process and the role of the District Attorney’s Office. Moreno will also touch on the impact of state policy on local prosecution.
“Special Victims Unit & Resources” is the topic for Oct. 13. Guest speaker Supervising DDA Eric Dutemple will discuss domestic violence, elder abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking with support from Community Action Partnership Madera County (CAPMC). He’ll also talk about victim advocacy, Marsy’s Law, restitution and court support dog, “Callie.”
“Investigations & Mock Crime Scene” will be discussed on Oct. 20, presented by Chief of Investigations Jennifer Parton and team. They will cover the role of DA investigators and specialized investigations, fraud, prison crimes, extraditions and task forces. The evening will include a mock crime scene and evidence collection.
“Case Study & DUI Awareness” is planned for Oct. 27 with Madera County Assistant Sheriff Robert Blehm. He will speak on high profile case review and the impacts of impaired driving with guest and former prosecutor, Judge Miguel Valdovinos.
“Courts & Community Collaboration” on Nov. 3 will include a Madera County Courthouse Tour, an overview of Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court, Probation Department and judicial staff presentations and the departments’ role in rehabilitation, supervision and collaboration.
The Citizens Academy is planned to conclude with “Graduation & Community Engagement” on Nov. 10 with a ceremony and certificates. Local agencies will share volunteer opportunities and dinner will be provided.
The Madera County DA’s Office is located at 300 South G Street, Suite 300, in Madera.
For more information and an application visit: www.maderada.org/citizensacademy
Space is limited. Selected participants will be notified prior to the start date.
Questions? Contact Jennifer.Parton@MaderaCounty.com
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