Explorer Program

How many times could you use an extra set of hands for simple tasks at work? If you are like most people, it probably happens frequently. The Pierre Police Department is fortunate to have a group of youth from the area who provide those extra hands for its employees. They are members of the Pierre Area Law Enforcement Explorer Program and are commonly known as cadets.

The Law Enforcement Explorer Program is sanctioned by the Boy Scouts of America. It provides opportunities for both male and female teenagers with a chance to work hand-in-hand with local law enforcement. The most common benefit cadets provide to officers is the extra set of eyes and ears during patrol duties.

Program Details


Each cadet wears a uniform and is required to accompany a full-time police officer or communications officer a minimum of eight (8) hours each month. Cadets also provide assistance, such as traffic control at parades, and serve as counselors at the Safety Town summer recreation program. They also assist with the fingerprinting of children, nationally know as the Operation Child ID Program anytime there is a request for said activities at civic events.

The cadets also attend the annual Boy Scout Jamboree and the annual Law Enforcement Explorer Challenge where their skills regarding team building (including mental and physical survival skills) are tested through various scenarios.

Application Process


Prior to becoming a law enforcement explorer, candidates participate in an interview and a brief background investigation prior to being accepted into the program. Recruit cadets also attend some basic training which familiarizes them with the entire operation of the Pierre police Department. The recruit cadets who pass all stages of the selection and training process are then issued their uniforms and equipment.

The greatest part of the Explorer Program is the interaction between our young people and the men and women of the Pierre Police Department. The time the cadets spend with our employees is priceless.

If you know a high school student who is between 14 and 20 years of age who has maintained a C grade point average and doesn't have a serious criminal record, becoming a law enforcement explorer may be an excellent stepping stone experience for a young person who is considering entering into a law enforcement career.

If you would like more information about the Pierre Area Law Enforcement Explorer Program, feel free to contact a School Resource Officer.
     
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