The Professional Development and Standards Bureau is dedicated to investing in the agency’s most valuable asset – its 5,000-plus employees and volunteer reserve deputies.

The Bureau includes the agency’s modern training academy that supports its Basic Peace Officer Course, Basic County Corrections Course, and Patrol Training Course for those who are already certified peace officers in Texas. The academy also provides year-round advanced training through in-person and online learning and professional development opportunities to staff and area law enforcement agencies. In addition, there is a firearms range complex that is utilized for the Basic Peace Officer Course, Patrol Training Course, specialized training, and employee annual firearms qualifications.

The Bureau also includes the Policy Unit that performs research intended to assist agency leaders in developing effective and innovative policies, procedures, and guidelines that embody the agency’s mission, core values, while abiding by ethical and moral standards. The Performance Standards Unit conducts evaluations of all operations within the Sheriff’s Office to ensure compliance with its standard operating procedures, policies, and all applicable state and federal laws. The CALEA Unit ensures the agency maintains the highest standards and accreditation according to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).