Anyone interested in a behind-the-walls look at the Hampden County Sheriff's correctional facilities and a window into the work of the sheriff’s office has a chance, thanks to the first-in-the-nation Civilian Outreach Corrections Academy.
Under the direction of Sheriff Nick Cocchi, the department’s civilian academy is designed for residents of Western Massachusetts looking to learn about topics ranging from the opioid epidemic and how to administer Narcan to understanding what a day in the life of a corrections officer is really like.
“This academy is a real opportunity for the public to experience corrections from the inside and learn the real story. Most people only know what they’ve seen on TV or hear about from outside the walls of our jails. This is a unique chance to see our operation up close from the inside, and learn more about what we do in terms of community engagement” Sheriff Cocchi said. “I’m proud of my staff and the work they do every day. If you want to know more about your sheriff's office and have a good time while doing it, the academy may be for you.”
Classes include K-9 demonstrations, meeting the Mounted Patrol and Marine Patrol Units, Cell Extraction Team demonstrations, family and friends CPR, a “Day in the Life of a Corrections Officer,” a “Day in the Life of an Inmate,” a tour of the jail, recognizing substance abuse and addiction to opioids, Narcan training and an overview of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office’s role in the community.
The academy meets one evening a week for six consecutive weeks for 2-3 hours per night. There is no charge and the class is open to all Hampden County residents 18 years and older who pass a CORI background screening. The dates of the next academy will be announced soon.
The academy will be held at the Hampden County Jail and House of Correction, the department’s main institution, at 627 Randall Road in Ludlow. On-site tours will be offered, however, toward the end of the session at our Western Mass. Regional Women's Correctional Center in Chicopee and our All-Inclusive Support Systems facility in Springfield.
Civilian Outreach Corrections Academy Application
Anyone interested in a behind-the-walls look at the Hampden County Sheriff's correctional facilities and a window into the work of the sheriff’s office has a chance, thanks to the first-in-the-nation Civilian Outreach Corrections Academy. Sign up HERE!