The intent of Law Enforcement Cadets is to educate and involve youth in police operations, to interest them in law enforcement functions whether they enter police work or not.  Through involvement, the Law Enforcement Cadet program establishes an awareness of the complexities of police service and provides a community service.

The presence of a Law Enforcement Cadet program within any agency can be a positive factor in influencing departmental attitudes, both internally and externally.  Cadets are given an opportunity to see firsthand the efforts of commissioned personnel.  Additionally, commissioned personnel normally exposed to youth involved with criminal offenses can observe and experience the positive side of young America.  Exploring provides the law enforcement community an opportunity to further an investment in its own future through relationships with fit and capable young adults.

If you would like more information please email Sgt. Alan McCowan or call 503-856-3475.

Cadets may also be contacted by clicking here.

PROGRAM GUIDELINE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

· Age: 14 through 20 years old
· Grade Point average of 2.50 or better.
· Copy of high school transcript will need to be submitted.
· Clear criminal history. Minor violations will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
· Good driving record.
· Parental approval.
· Submission of a volunteer application form.
· Successful completion of written test, interview and background investigation.

Please click here for the Cadet Interest Form for more cadet information.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

The program can further each Cadet's education, encourage the Cadet's participating in a regarding and productive service activity, and enhance the Cadet's preparation for future roles as citizen and community members.

Several approaches may be used to achieve the objectives of Law Enforcement Exploring.  Another approach is the Cadet ride-along program.  At the discretion and direction of the appropriate department, Cadets can observe firsthand the field activities of police.

Besides gaining a working knowledge of police work, the participants have the opportunity to give of themselves to their community.  Many departments use the help of Law Enforcement Cadets in such areas a crime prevention, record keeping, radio communications, and telecommunications.  These activities are performed under the supervision of department members and demonstrate that Cadets can have more than a superficial role in law enforcement.

POST PROGRAM IDEAS

The Cadet Program is based on matching the program resources of adults in the organization with the needs and interests of Cadets in the post.  Each post program is unique because it is planned around what that specific organization is able and willing to do.

The purpose of the organization and the BSA are best served when well-rounded programs are planned to include Cadet's six experience areas; career, social, service, leadership, fitness and outdoor.  Such planning gives Cadets an exciting and worth while program leading to personal fitness, leadership training and character development.

Additional Links:
1. National Runaway Switchboard 1-800-621-4000
2. Salem-Keizer Gang Intervention Project 503-588-6261
3. The Teenagers Guide to the Real World
4. Suicide Crisis Line 503-585-4949 or 503-581-5535

Read more about the experiences of a Keizer Police Cadet.